Homebrewed Christianity

Aizaiah Yong - Swimming Against the Stream: How Contemplation Fuels Justice Work

Sep 24, 2025
Aizaiah G. Yong, an ordained Pentecostal minister and author focused on contemplation and justice, dives into the art of living fully in a fast-paced world. He argues that contemplation isn't passive but an active engagement with life, linking spiritual practices to social action. Aizaiah discusses the power of monastic stability in slowing our frantic culture and explores Internal Family Systems as a way to dialogue with our inner selves. He emphasizes that true transformation thrives in compassionate, face-to-face interactions, blending spirituality with social justice.
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INSIGHT

Make Every Action Contemplative

  • Contemplation and action are inseparable: every protest, conversation, or mundane task can be done contemplatively.
  • The skill is to bring interiority into ordinary engagements for sustainable justice work.
INSIGHT

Contemplation Is Whole-Life Action

  • Contemplation means living fully and welcoming the whole range of experience, not passive escape.
  • It fuses discernment with action so confrontation can be contemplative and effective.
ANECDOTE

Kung Fu Story About Strength And Composure

  • Aizaiah told a Kung Fu story about his child's white belt teaching less force, more composure.
  • He uses it to illustrate acting with clarity and conserving energy for greater impact.
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