Parker Palmer, founder of the Center for Courage & Renewal, is a renowned writer and activist focused on community, leadership, and social change. In this engaging conversation, he explores the journey towards wholeness, discussing the interplay of solitude and community for personal growth. Palmer shares candid insights about his experiences with depression and emphasizes the importance of embracing both light and dark aspects of ourselves. He introduces the 'Circle of Trust' concept, highlighting the significance of open dialogue and understanding in bridging societal divides.
54:34
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Embracing Wholeness
We must integrate our light and darkness instead of trying to suppress one with the other.
Wholeness involves embracing all aspects of ourselves, including our shadow sides.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Depression and the Soul
Parker Palmer's experience with depression shaped his understanding of the soul.
During depression, his usual faculties were useless, revealing a deeper inner spark.
insights INSIGHT
The Divided Life
The divided life is a wounded life, and the soul seeks healing.
Ignoring this call leads to numbing the pain with various anesthetics.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In *A Hidden Wholeness*, Parker J. Palmer explores the concept of living an undivided life, where individuals can align their inner truth with their daily activities. The book addresses themes such as the shape of an integral life, the meaning of community, and nonviolent social change. Palmer introduces the concept of 'circles of trust' as a means to foster wholeness and integrity in personal and public lives.
Healing the Heart of Democracy
The Courage to Create a More Just and Compassionate World
Parker Palmer
In "Healing the Heart of Democracy," Parker Palmer explores the deep connection between individual and societal well-being. He argues that a healthy democracy requires citizens who are both engaged and self-aware. Palmer emphasizes the importance of cultivating empathy, compassion, and a sense of shared purpose. He examines the challenges facing contemporary democracies, including political polarization and social fragmentation. The book offers a vision of a more just and compassionate society, grounded in the principles of civic engagement and personal transformation.
Life together
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
In 'Life Together,' Dietrich Bonhoeffer explores the practical and theological aspects of Christian community. The book, written during his time at an underground seminary for the Confessing Church in Nazi Germany, emphasizes the importance of unity under Christ and the distinction between human and spiritual love. It is divided into five chapters: Community, The Day with Others, The Day Alone, Ministry, and Confession and Communion. Bonhoeffer stresses the need for balance between solitude and community, the importance of mutual confession and forgiveness, and the role of Christ as the foundation of Christian fellowship. The book offers practical advice on living in Christian community, highlighting the need for truthful communication, humble hearts, and a commitment to serving one another[2][4][5].
Parker J. Palmer, is the founder and Senior Partner of the Center for Courage & Renewal. He is a world-renowned writer, speaker and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change. He has reached millions worldwide through his nine books, including Let Your Life Speak,The Courage to Teach, A Hidden Wholeness, and Healing the Heart of Democracy.
But wait, there’s more! The episode is not quite over!! We continue the conversation and you can access this exclusive content right in your podcast player feed. Head over to our Patreon page and pledge to donate just $10 a month. It’s that simple and we’ll give you good stuff as a thank you!
The One You Feed 
