True authority is exercised in the context of justice for all, with special attention to the weakest people, who cannot defend themselves and are part of the oppressed minority. A family or community authority, as well as having this sense of justice and truth, needs personal relationships, sensitivity in its action and the ability to listen, trust and forgive. None of this, of course, excludes moments of firmness.
- Jean Vanier, Community and Growth, p. 207
2 comments:
That sounds like a good book, Heidi. I've never read anything by Vanier--and that hasn't been a LOT--that has left me disappointed. But this sounds like the kind of thing I need to hear right now.
Thou rawkest, girl. Thanks!
I'm in the midst of reading that book for one of my seminary classes. Loving it so far. Thanks for posting.
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