Parker J. Palmer--who for forty years has written and spoken about subjects ranging from contemplation to community, the inner life to public life, education to social change--is known as one of the nation's most thoughtful voices, calling us all to ways of being in the world that honor the human heart and promote a humane society. This book, a celebration of Palmer's long and distinguished career, explores the dynamic interplay between the inner life and spirit and the outer life of work. The equally distinguished contributors, who come from a wide range of professions--university presidents, scientists, physicians, religious leaders, business consultants, public school educators, philanthropists, and community organizers--bear witness to the depth, breadth, and reach of Palmer's work. All of them have been personally touched by his courage and determination to live a life congruent with the ideas and principles he writes about and by his candor in acknowledging his own flaws. These intimate essays and stories shed new light on some of the most important topics of our time--living an integral life, teaching and learning for transformation, creating community, and contributing to nonviolent social change. This book challenges all of us to take a journey inward and a journey outward, preparing ourselves to offer the right action and authentic leadership that the world so deeply needs.
