Testimonials
The narrative sharing of our lives is powerful. A variety
of writers and speakers have reminded me of that recently. Some
have made the case for story telling for its ability to communicate
between cultures. Others have suggested that in the remembering
and sharing of personal narratives we can restore some of our best
from the past in order to build a brighter future. My friend,
Julie Lynch, has added her voice to this chorus. And what a
beautiful voice it is. Julie makes a strong argument that through
the sharing of personal narrative we can claim healing and hope. Cherishing
Sophia is a treasure that invites women (and as a man I also found
it very engaging) to claim their inherent beauty and power.
Bringing together recent findings in religion, spirituality, emotional
intelligence, listening, narrative studies, and other academic disciplines,
she has created an argument that is not only compelling but really
fun as well. I started to read Julie’s book as a textbook,
but soon realized it has more in common with poetry. Her personal
sharing is honest and inviting and gave me as a reader permission
to explore some of the shadows from my own past that can be revisited
in order to recognize the true light that shone in my life back then.
As an Appreciative Inquiry Coach, I discovered so much I could glean
for my practice and in my life. In every human being something
works. What we pay attention to becomes our reality. We
are free to choose which stories from our past will continue to shape
our present and future. As liberated human beings, we have
the privilege and the responsibility to live our lives from the truths
we embrace rather than the oppressive stories others might tell about
us. Being present to another human being will influence that
person in some way. Cherishing Sophia gives us resources to
practice the simple yet profound gift of “presence” and
really listening to another. The book outlines different listening
types that all have their place. To make a decision to listen
to another is to increase the possibilities of adding great value.
This book is filled with provocative quotes that could fill your
journal and invite deep reflection. I recommend it be read
and pondered as a great feast. This is not the place
to use your speed reading techniques. Like a feast shared with
friends, Julie invites us all to slow down, practice extreme self
care, discover your positive core, and live in a way that adds value
to others and our world. Thanks Julie for such a meaningful
gift.
David E. Nelson, D.Min.
Appreciative Inquiry Coach
The Human Agenda
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