Nine Essential Things I’ve Learned about Life Harold S. Kushner
This audio book is read by the author. He has a soothing, calming voice that makes it easier to consider the difficult topics contained in this book. Kushner tackles tough topics like original sin which he rejects, helping others, revenge, forgiveness and how we practice our faith. He uses the Bible, personal experience, and modern examples to explore the topics.
In his chapter, “Forgiveness is a Favor You Do Yourself,” Kushner looks at forgiveness in a new way. He writes that revenge is not about justice; it is about power. He would encourage us to stop using those two words interchangeably. He writes forgiveness is active not passive. Two Scripture examples in this chapter are Joseph forgiving his brothers (Genesis 45) and David and Michal’s inability to forgive each other in 2 Samuel 6. What if we were active in forgiveness? What if we stop trying to get revenge on our “enemies” and instead seek forgiveness? These are some of the difficult questions this book will leave you considering.
Many of the Biblical stories and verse he shares are not the most often cited examples pulled from the Bible. I appreciate that he opens up and discusses parts of our sacred text that we don’t often highlight. I enjoyed listening to this book so much that I used it in my most recent sermon. You’ll enjoy this book whether you read it or listen while the author reads it to you. This book is written so anyone can read it and understand it. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be challenged in your worldview and your faith.