Unveiling Bravery: A Review of How We Learn to Be Brave by Bishop Mariann Budde
When I first picked up How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and …, I must admit I was more intrigued by its author, Bishop Mariann Budde, than the genre itself. My usual reading routine leans far away from inspirational nonfiction, but after witnessing her powerful speech on January 21, 2025, I felt an irresistible pull towards her words. Budde’s call for compassion in the face of adversity captivated me; it gave me goosebumps and reignited my faith in what a leader can truly embody. Hence, I set aside my usual “no self-help” policy and dived into this book, and let me tell you, I have no regrets.
Bishop Budde’s writing is an elegant tapestry woven together with threads of personal anecdotes, scriptural insights, and profound reflections on bravery. The core message of the book centers around bravery not merely as a call to action, but as a series of decisions we confront in everyday moments. This was revelatory for me. Often, we equate bravery with grand gestures, the types that make headlines. However, Budde illuminates the quiet strength in decisions that seem small—decisions to stay still, to love fiercely, or simply to be kind amid chaos.
One of the book’s surprises for me was its humor and relatability. Bishop Budde, through her thoughtful narrative, doesn’t shy away from recounting her missteps and regrets—something that humanizes her and makes her guidance feel more attainable. She references a diverse array of leaders, and even popular fiction like Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, which was a delightful touch that made me chuckle, especially as someone who has encountered diverse views on such readings within my own Catholic community.
The writing style is accessible yet profound, flowing seamlessly from one chapter to the next. Each chapter is a nugget of wisdom, enriched with memorable quotes that left a mark on me. One in particular resonates deeply: “When we decide to start toward something that requires courage, we are often creating new possibilities for those who come after us.” This statement reinforced how our personal bravery can pave the way for others, a theme that echoed throughout the book.
Bishop Budde’s approach to inclusivity is another highlight; her insistence on unconditional love transcends denominational lines. As a Catholic reader, I found her thoughts refreshing, especially in a landscape where such conversations can often feel fraught. Her critique of “white Christianity” as anathema to Jesus’ message challenged me to reevaluate my own beliefs and practices—thought-provoking reflections that felt both urgent and necessary.
Though I don’t usually gravitate towards inspirational literature, I found myself completely engaged, marking notable passages and contemplating their implications long after I turned the last page. Budde’s ability to convey depth without condescension or preachiness is admirable; I was genuinely touched by her perspective and clarity.
I would recommend How We Learn to Be Brave to anyone seeking encouragement, especially those interested in spiritual growth or social consciousness. For my fellow skeptics of the inspirational genre, this might just surprise you. Despite my usual aversion to such books, I rated this one four stars for its engaging content and powerful themes. In times when bravery feels scarce, Bishop Budde stands as a compelling beacon of hope—a reminder of how each of us can choose love, compassion, and courage, even in our decisive moments.
So, if you’re curious about blending faith and resolve, or if you want to explore the courageous leadership of Bishop Budde, grab this book. It’s not just a read; it’s an experience that lingers, much like her words that day in January. Wouldn’t we all want to be part of the love-spreaders rather than hatemongers? Here’s to choosing bravery—one small decision at a time!
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