On Our Bookshelf: Spring 2017
Allow different perspectives to inform your views and determine a more open course.
Mindful Politics: A Buddhist Guide to Making the World a Better Place by Melvin McLeod
This compilation of expert views explores the possibilities of moving beyond the ideology of party affiliation to allow space for advocacy, personal growth, and progressive action. McLeod is president/editor-in-chief of Lion’s Roar magazine.
Giving Back: A Tribute to Generations of African American Philanthropists by Valaida Fullwood
Now a touring art exhibition, Fullwood documents more than 200 stories of black philanthropists with sizable impact on communities. If purchased through the New Generation of African American Philanthropists, a portion of the proceeds benefits this giving circle: new-philanthropists.org
Becoming Wise: An Inquiry into the Mystery and the Art of Living by Krista Tippett
Tippett uses this book to encourage readers to “nurture new realities in the spaces we inhabit” to discover common life between others and personal depth in a fractured world. Tippett is creator/host of “On Being.”
When We Rise: My Life in the Movement by Cleave Jones
Born in 1954, Jones grew up in a society that believed his homosexuality was a mental illness. But he was also part of a pioneering generation of LGBTQ advocates who fought for civil rights and equality. Jones’ autobiography is the basis of a 2017 miniseries.
Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life by Thich Nhat Hanh
As a Vietnamese monk, poet, and peace activist, Nhat Hanh’s exercises teaches readers to apply positivity to the situations that may antagonize them. Further meditations and anecdotes allow for developing a more humanitarian perspective.
Hope in the Dark: Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities by Rebecca Solnit
With decades of activism to support her theories, historian and prolific author Solnit insists radical change isn’t immediately seen or even measurable, but transformative victories happen regardless. Her key message: activism is a journey.
This article was originally published in YogaIowa’s Spring 2017 issue.
