Join with us each week on Sunday nights as we gather on Patrick Wilson's FaceBook page for a time of Bible study, reflection, and discussion. The Bible study will be topically based on a book that suppliment our study. Reading the book is encouraged but not required for participation in the study.
This particular study will be based on two texts: First, we will read two or three short chapters each week in Radical Kindness: The Life Changing Power of Giving and Receiving by Angela C. Santomero. Here is a brief introduction to the book:
Angela C. Santomero, the creator, executive producer, and head writer of many of today’s most popular educational children’s shows believes in the radical power of kindness, on her shows and in her life. Inspired by her mentor Fred Rogers, beloved host of the classic, award-winning PBS show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Angela has dedicated her life to teaching others that when you treat yourself and others with warmth, empathy, and respect, life-changing benefits follow.
From the true meaning of self-care and the gift of vulnerability, to the importance of active listening or the magic of asking for help, Radical Kindness goes beyond the Golden Rule and entreaties to “be nice”, contending that kindness is the key to recognizing others, and ourselves, as worthy of love and understanding.
Much like gratitude, Angela contends we need a kindness practice. A practice in which we learn to see with our hearts and act from a place of compassion. As the Dalai Lama says, “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” Through practicing radical kindness - toward ourselves, with loved ones, and to the world at large - we can transform ourselves, our neighborhood, and our world for the better.
Second, we will read a few pages in The Kind Humans Survivial Guide by John Pavlovitz (download here). Pavlovitz will offer companion ideas to go with the book above further empowering us to live with radical kindness.