Living on the Edge of the Inside With Dr. Barbara Holmes
Oct 4, 2024
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Dr. Barbara Holmes, a scholar in African American spirituality and mysticism, dives deep into the themes of simplicity and justice. She shares insights on how embracing simplicity can lead to freedom and foster community support. The concept of 'soft prophecy' as a peaceful response to suffering takes center stage, as she encourages living authentically in a complex world. Holmes also highlights the cosmological perspective that expands our understanding of race and power, inviting listeners to engage in social justice with imagination and compassion.
Embracing simplicity as a transformative practice challenges societal structures and invites deeper engagement with community and justice.
The concept of 'soft prophecy' encourages individuals to embody justice through lifestyle choices rather than confrontational activism, promoting authentic change.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Simplicity and Justice
This chapter delves into the connection between simplicity and justice through the lives of Francis and Clare, emphasizing their downward path as a vocation for justice in the world. Living a simple life is presented not merely as an individual pursuit but as a powerful critique against societal systems that uphold power and privilege. The notion of following the way of the spirit in a counter-cultural manner while remaining engaged in the world is highlighted as a profound challenge and invitation for individuals. This complex interplay of personal calling and broader societal impact encourages reflection on how one navigates the tensions between ego and genuine vocation.
Understanding Soft Prophecy
The concept of 'soft prophecy' is discussed as a transformative way of existing in the world, wherein one’s way of life serves as a critique of oppressive structures rather than relying on confrontational activism. Unlike hard prophecy that often emphasizes direct verbal critiques, soft prophecy calls for a lifestyle that naturally embodies justice and compassion, inviting others toward change without forceful rhetoric. This approach resonates with the idea that the best critique of the negative is through practicing something better, urging individuals to live out values of love and justice. Francis and Clare exemplified this principle by living simply and justly, thus providing an enduring model for others.
Embracing the Contemplative Laboratory
The chapter introduces the notion of viewing one's life as a 'contemplative laboratory' where trial and error are embraced in spiritual practice and social justice efforts. This metaphor emphasizes the need for both order and disorder in personal and communal growth, suggesting that experiments in living can lead to deeper understanding and effective action. Richard Rohr points out that engaging in contemplative practices can foster emotional sobriety and divine connection, enabling individuals to navigate their imperfections while striving for justice. This lab-like space allows for flexibility in approaches to social change, encouraging a spirit of experimentation rather than rigidity.
Letting Go of Personal Kingdoms
A significant theme explored is the necessity of letting go of one's own 'kingdoms', including personal desires, opinions, and societal pressures, to truly engage in a spiritual and just life. This notion of relinquishing control and expectations is seen as essential for true freedom, which often comes with discomfort and sacrifice. It challenges individuals to recognize that genuine transformation may involve a painful yet liberating descent into simplicity and humility. The discussion highlights that such letting go does not signify inaction; rather, it enables participants to engage more authentically with their communities and the divine, leading to more meaningful contributions.
What does simplicity look like for you in your everyday life?
In this episode, we’re joined by CAC Faculty member Dr. Barbara Holmes. Together, we continue our chapter-by-chapter exploration of Eager to Love with Chapter 3: “Living on the Edge of the Inside: Simplicity and Justice.” This episode explores the practice of simplicity as a path to freedom, the importance of community in supporting that journey, and the concept of "soft prophecy" as a way of living in peace and being peace in a world full of suffering. Before Paul and Drew dive into the interview with Dr. Barbara Holmes, Mike and Paul catch up with Richard at his hermitage to hear his reflections on the third chapter of Eager to Love.
Dr. Barbara Holmesis a scholar of African American spirituality and mysticism. Dr. Barbara Holmes reveals how the cosmos can expand our limited constructs of religion, race, and power. As faculty at the Center for Action and Contemplation, she teaches how God’s communal presence can inspire imagination and wisdom, especially in times of crisis. She is the author of Race and the Cosmos,Joy Unspeakable, and Crisis Contemplation. She hosts CAC's podcast The Cosmic We.
Hosted by CAC Staff: Mike Petrow, Paul Swanson, and Drew Jackson
Resources:
A PDF of the transcript for this episode can be found here.