Marc Andrus

I appreciate the view this book gives me of some of the key principles of Martin Luther King Jr. and Thich Nhat Hanh, and how they're brief connection in the living realm allowed them to develop their own thinking and activism. Thich Nhat Hanh was working to end the war in Vietnam, called there the American War, at the same time that King was working to awaken white America and claim the rights of Black people. After King's assassination, Thich Nhat Hanh made a vow to continue the work that King and he new to be vital to transforming society: that of generating and nurturing the Beloved Community.

I knew some of this story, particularly about the life and worldview of Thich Nhat Hanh, and there was much that I didn't know. Having it all pulled together was very useful for me. I recommend it for social justice activists of the present day. It certainly isn't the whole story, but it's a window into a part of the story that is generally unknown or partially understood, and is a good jumping off place for more reading (and more activism).… (mehr)

This was a very challenging book. I am grateful for the tangents on which it sent me. But the book itself was quite academic and a difficult read. We found in our discussion with the author that this was his doctoral dissertation. That explained much. It was interesting to learn the lineage and growth of the concept of Beloved Community. Also to see the sad misinterpretation of the monks' self immolations during the Vietnam War. We have so much to learn in trying to communicate across languages and cultures. I'm glad to have read this with others to help me understand. I think we all found it to be hard work but with some wisdom to be gained with perseverance.… (mehr)