Courageous, hopeful and inspiring civil rights leader John Lewis is one of my heroes. More than five decades after he was slammed in the head by a white state trooper's billy club while he led a march on behalf of Rev. But as he came to the top of the bridge, hundreds of Alabama state troopers – and deputized citizens – came into view. For print-disabled users. 100 Previews . Like the DL I get that feeling of peace reading Lewis's words, and wonder what it would have been like to be around MLK Jr. and the others that Lewis mentions as being his inspirations and teachers. With an engaged electorate once again confronting questions of social inequality, there's no better time to revisit the lessons of the '60s and no better leader to learn from than Congressman John, Although it has been decades since the historic social upheavals of the 1960s, Americans continue to look to the Civil Rights Movement as the apotheosis of political expression. If there was ever a book I needed at a certain time, it was this one. The late Rep. John Lewis was carried across Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, where the civil rights leader helped lead a march for voting rights in 1965, for a final goodbye. John Lewis is an amazing human being, a true leader & has an unbelievable outlook on life today in America & the world which I find even more incredible because of the things he has lived through & endured. I struggle with the current political situation, increasing prejudice and decreased concern for the retired, middle class and those who need help with addiction, housing, adequate nutrition and medical care. I so highly recommend this book. As we confront questions of social inequality there's no better time to revisit the lessons of the '60s and no better leader to learn from than Congressman John Lewis. Additionally, Congressman Lewis' book is very spiritual and courageous. I was privileged to vote for Lewis during nearly 30 years while I lived in District 5 in Atlanta, GA, which he represented. Why must we, as members of the human family, immerse ourselves in the agency of turmoil and unrest to affect the evolution of humankind? Find sample tests, essay help, and translations of Shakespeare. For instance he argues that people are born good, and that racism occurs because people have been poorly taught. ― John Lewis, Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America. However, Lewis' involvement in the fight for social justice did not end after the 50s and 60s. I also took a 90-minute nap in the afternoon. Love in action. So many gave so much that seems to have been forgotten. The sections are titled: faith, patience, study, act, peace, love and reconciliation. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.” —Winston Churchill, Peace: “Peace is softening what is rigid in our hearts. tags: falsehoods, lies, truth. Lewis talks in detail about how he was able, mentally and emotionally, to put himself into situations over and over where he faced hatred, incarceration, and violence. Just want to say Rest in Power, John Lewis. It chronicles Lewis’ activities in the civil rights movement but as much is a poetic proponent for non-violent change activity. Across the Bridge Summary. The body of John Lewis crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge one last time on Sunday in what organizers described as "The Final Crossing," part of a multiday celebration of the life of the civil rights icon. He and the other activists planned on marching to the state capitol as a protest against voter discrimination. On March 7, 1965, John Lewis led a group of peaceful protestors onto the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. John Robert Lewis (February 21, 1940 – July 17, 2020) was an American politician, statesman, and civil rights activist and leader who served in the United States House of Representatives for Georgia's 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020. This summer, at St. Paul's ASP, I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to learn more about him and his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. © 2021 Copyright Interaction Institute for Social Change. One thing I enjoyed in the book was all of the small biographical details about leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. A little slow in parts, but I consider this a must read. You are the light. A self-help book for activists, specifically focusing on the values necessary to make change. July 26 (UPI) --The body of civil rights icon and U.S. House Rep. John Lewis crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Sunday.A horse-drawn caisson carried the casket across the bridge … I highly recommend it for all. We need reminded. I have. The Civil Rights Movement is a part of our history, and John Lewis played a big part of helping us get to where we are today. In Across That Bridge, Congressman John Lewis draws from his experience as a prominent leader of the Civil Rights Movement to offer timeless wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful principles for anyone interested in challenging injustices and inspiring real change toward a freer, more peaceful society. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. I am grateful that John Lewis shared his story and for his work in Congress. Finally, Lewis is too liberal for my political views. And coming as it does from a civil rights hero like John Lewis, this is important information for our own time. The Edmund Pettus Bridge, now a National Historic Landmark, was the site of the brutal Bloody Sunday beatings of civil rights marchers during the first march for voting rights. Get this from a library! ENCRYPTED DAISY download. Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. His wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful … 89 South Street, Suite 405 Truly an incredible experience reading this book. Boston, MA 02111. So much wisdom, but a couple of my favorite quotes: In this jewel of a book, Rep. Lewis presents several categories which he suggests should be mastered in order to bring about meaningful change - to light the fire of a movement. A short book with the wisdom of a prophet and the compassion of one who has sacrificed all for the cause of peace and justice. There is no discounting the life experience of John Lewis. I learned so much about the Civil Rights movement, and what's more, the lessons he provides are timely today for the desire for change we see percolating in our society. Why must we be the ones? The triumph of truth. Across That Bridge is worth reading for most Americans because it shines a light on an extremely important era in American history. The part of the book I liked best was Lewis's thorough explanation of the philosophy of the non-violent movement. Lewis's Vision for Change" is outstanding. Also, Congressman Lewis writes about his experience of being beaten, and his incarceration. Lewis talks in detail about how he was able, mentally and emotionally, to put himself into situations over and over where he faced hatred, incarceration, and violence. Yet, even fifty years later, it is rare to find anyone who would use the word love to describe what we did. So many gave so much that seems to have been forgotten. ), I have always admired John Lewis. Reading this on the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington was fitting. While I often have a hard time living up to his ideals, I am inspired by his deeply held belief in the unity and equality of all people. It's a smaller book, broken up into sections on foundational lessons from Lewis's life, like "Faith," "Patience," "Peace," and "Love." What legacy do you want to leave behind?”, http://www.hyperionbooks.com/book/across-that-bridge/. I just re-read this book for a class I'm teaching this semester on the history, philosophy, and practice of nonviolence. REHM John Lewis, he is United States Congressman from Georgia's Fifth District. It challenged me to think of how I view the political & moral climate & how I choose to react. We will feel less. We need reminded. Each chapter/essay dealt with a theme of peaceful resistance via a particular concept: love, peace, unity, etc. I love how devoted he was and is to nonviolent social change, how he continues to live the dream that many gave up on in the late 1960s, and his support of current civil rights issues of gay rights and educational equality. It is not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. The part of the book I liked best was Lewis's thorough explanation of the philosophy of the non-violent movement. This book was one of the most profound, intelligent, thought provoking works I have ever read. The Civil Rights Movement, above all, was a work of love. A beautiful book. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. The book was meant to be inspiring, and it very much is inspiring. I do recommend this book, but it was a little disappointing for me. After reading this, Civil Rights leader and Congressman John Lewis is one of my new heroes. Books that Influenced Me: An icon of the civil rights movement, the author of the graphic memoir March shares a personal book list. Across that bridge : a vision for change and the future of America. Rooted in the teachings of Ghandi, Kennedy, King, Mandela and other champions of non-violent activism, this book reads like a beautiful melody. So. Though our hearts are broken, LOVE and compassion will help us heal and move forward. The insight portrayed, and depiction that, "education is the most important tool to institute this change" was amplified during Lewis's marches with Rev. As we confront questions of social inequality there's no … I learned so much about the Civil Rights movement, and what's more, the lessons he provides are timely today for the desire. I found myself agreeing on much of what Rep. Lewis wrote, and I so want many others to read his vision for how to make our future better. I recommend this book to anyone who cares about truth, goodness and working for justice. From Page 164, "Perhaps the variations in appearance and expression that seem to occupy so much of our concern--tall, short, black, brown, straight hair or curly, white or yellow, fat or slender, gay or straight--are more an expression of the broad imagination of the Creator than they are an indication of our value or worth. The most inspiring book I read in 2013 was Across that Bridge: Life Lessons and A Vision for Change, by Congressman and Civil Rights legend, John Lewis. Thanks for exploring this SuperSummary Plot Summary of “Across the Bridge” by Mavis de Trafford Young. Reading. His wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful ideas will inspire a new generation to usher in a freer, more peaceful society. How will all of you honor his legacy? Is this the book that was referenced during today's service for Mr. Lewis? What that legacy will be is determined by the people of that generation. My favorite part was relating the connection between Mrs. Rosa Parks and Myles Horton's Highlander School, and Highlander's prominent role in instructing demonstrators in nonviolent civil action. He was a member of the Democratic Party and was one of the most liberal legislators. In. To see what your friends thought of this book, Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America. I have the feeling you had a particular bridge in mind when you titled that book. Winner of the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work/Biography. I have tremendous respect for John Lewis as a man of courage, principle, and action so it pains me to give him a mediocre rating. We will hear less. Lewis is no pie-in-the-sky hippie. Networks for Change: Values Before Vision? Nothing to ask. I was proud to see the recognition given to the school, and prouder to see it stated that Mrs. I absolutely loved this book for what is has to say about bringing truth and peace to America, and the world. The most inspiring book I read in 2013 was Across that Bridge: Life Lessons and A Vision for Change, by Congressman and Civil Rights legend, John Lewis. The aspects include faith, patience, study, truth, love, and reconciliation. Although it has been decades since the historic social upheavals of the 1960s, Americans continue to look to the Civil Rights Movement as the apotheosis of political expression. The body of the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis on Sunday made the final journey across the famous bridge in Selma, Alabama, where he helped lead a march for voting rights in 1965.At age 25, Lewis … We will see less. The late US Rep. John Robert Lewis made his final journey on Sunday across the famous bridge in Selma, Alabama, where the towering civil rights … The subtitle says it all: This book was one of the most profound, intelligent, thought provoking works I have ever read. It’s not a primer for non-violent change but rather a pathway to change. ... “Look to the growing edge!” – Howard Thurman Edge has its advantages. [John Lewis; Brenda D Jones] -- "In turbulent times Americans look to the Civil Rights Movement as the apotheosis of political expression. In Across That Bridge, Congressman John Lewis draws from his experience as a prominent leader of the Civil Rights Movement to offer timeless wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful principles for anyone interested in challenging injustices and inspiring real change toward a freer, more peaceful society. It was on March 7, 1965 — a Sunday — that this bridge and 25-year-old John Lewis were inextricably joined together in… Refresh and try again. For instance he spent many pages on the idea that change takes time, reformers will need to be patient. This is primer on activism using Lewis’ life and the civil rights movement as examples. “You are a light. Also, Congressman Lewis writes about his experience of being beaten, and his incarceration. Although “Across That Bridge: Life Lessons and a Vision for Change” by Congressman John Lewis has been in print for a while, I was led to read it by a rather interesting set of circumstances. (Thanks Laura!) While some of this felt just like what you'd expect (and have probably heard before) there were many moments where I found new insight, specifically when it came to the mindset of the activists in the civil rights movement. This book provides tremendous insight on how to have a more fulfilling life. I highly recommend this book to readers who want to develop more meaning in their lives, advocates of social justice, or those who love to read about history. He was the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) from 1963 to 1966. He was probably the third civil rights era activist I learned about after Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, I think he was talked about in a documentary my class watched on the lunch counter desegregations in the second He was a member of the Democratic Party and was one of t. John Robert Lewis was the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th congressional district, serving since 1987 and was the dean of the Georgia congressional delegation. Reading this on the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington was fitting. Across That Bridge is worth reading for most Americans because it shines a light on an extremely important era in American history. I love how devoted he was and is to nonviolent social change, how he continues to live the dream that many gave up on in the late 1960s, and his support of current civil rights issues of gay rights and educational equality. An inspiring read for anyone seeking to bring justice, peace and love to the world. Study the path of others to make your way easier and more abundant. John Lewis has the perspective of years of involvement and a heart of love and justice. As I loved his autobiography Walking with the Wind, I was thrilled when my wonderful sister told me about this book and gave me a copy. In Across That Bridge, Congressman John Lewis draws from his experience as a prominent leader of the civil rights movement to offer timeless wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful principles for anyone interested in challenging injustices and inspiring real change toward a freer, more peaceful society. It takes time but it can be done. We have within us the ability to affect change for the better and to live in truth. All of these aspects were put into action in the Civil Rights movement in which Mr. Lewis played such an important role. We were consciously aware that unity was our ultimate goal, and if that was truly our aim, we had come to grips with the fact that after all the warring was done, reconciliation, love, and forgiveness would have the final say.”. We can talk about ending war and we can march for ending war, we can do everything in our power, but war is never going to end as long as our hearts are hardened against each other.” —Pema Chödrön, Love: “We are all bound by the ties of love… Even as there is cohesive force in blind matter so much must there be in all things animate and the name for that cohesive force among animate beings is Love.” — Mohandas Gandhi, Reconciliation: “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine.” — Harry Dixon Loes, Your email address will not be published. You will only be richer spiritually for having read it. (Thanks Laura!) This short book is Lewis' guide for the young activists in the world today. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. Your email address will not be published. Another thing I didn't like was the middle of the book in which Lewis gave principles of the movement that should be followed today. I often found myself highlighting Lewis' words while reading and making note of the advice he gives in each chapter. by Hachette Books. We’d love your help. So radical was Highlander's thought, it was placed under FBI surveillance. They explain how he was able to face down violence and respond in a non-violent manner to people who thought he was their enemy, and later offer his opponents love and reconciliation. The secrets of non-violence to overcome the illusions of superiority and false righteousness. This is the finding of ecologists and other scientists looking at how peripheral spaces can provide adaptive strength. Every page is filled with lines that are quotable. See 2 questions about Across That Bridge…, Good Minds Suggest—Books that Influenced Congressman John Lewis. While some of this felt just like what you'd expect (and have probably heard before) there were many moments where I found new insight, specifically when it came to the mindset of the activists in the civil rights movement. Congressman Lewis' book is comprised of three essays on faith, patience, and peace. We need to live the truth...and we need to set the right example. John Robert Lewis was the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th congressional district, serving since 1987 and was the dean of the Georgia congressional delegation. A self-help book for activists, specifically focusing on the values necessary to make change. ARTICLES. He has been a member of Congress since 1986. You are a child of God. This book is a must read. of Health and Mental Hygiene: Race to Justice, Purpose Built Communities (in collaboration with Race Forward), Tremaine Foundation: Artists Thrive Summit, TSNE MissionWorks: Racial equity change process, United Way Worldwide: Race, Equity, & Inclusion, Women of Color Leadership Circle (Boston Foundation & Angell Foundation funded), CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention: Race equity training and change process. Recommended! A very uplifting book. DOWNLOAD OPTIONS download 1 file . Release all bitterness. I see some truth in his ideas, but his core beliefs are so liberal that it causes me to be a little skeptical about his practical advice. Inspirational words from one of the icons of the Civil Rights Movement, now a Congressman for many years! Reading this book has given me hope and has renewed my resolve to keep working. His vision for the future is powerful and magnetic. 1 Favorite . Clearly I am gushing with joy, excitement and love! As I hope to pursue a career in politics and/or the legal system, I can see myself coming back to this book many times throughout my life. In 1965, John Lewis was beaten when a voting rights march across a bridge in Selma, Alabama, turned violent. A must read for those in the struggle today for equality and fairness. He crossed that bridge one last time. There is defin. John Lewis is an amazing human being, a true leader & has an unbelievable outlook on life today in America & the world which I find even more incredible because of the things he has lived through & endured. As I hope to pursue a career in politics and/or the legal system, I can see myself coming back to this book many times throughout my life. It is thought provoking and an excellent summary of the most basic principles of non-violence. Congressman Lewis' book is comprised of three essays on faith, patience, and peace. Do join us, 800-433-8850. I loved this book (read it in one sitting) and as Douglas Brinkley says in his foreward “every young person should read this homily on civility”. Introduction: “Some men see things as they are and say ‘Why?’ I dream things that never were and say ‘Why not?’” —Robert F. Kennedy, Faith: “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11: 1, Patience: “Without patience, we will learn less in life. Welcome back. Each one reflects on these major lessons, providing both an inspiring introduction to a particular aspect of nonviolence and short anecdotes from Lewis's own life. There is definitely a Christian bent here, unsurprising for a man who studied to be a preacher, and he often makes an effort to extend into broader ideas of faith. A beautiful book, and a very teachable book. 14 day loan required to access EPUB and PDF files. 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