Living the Quaker Way: Discover the Hidden Happiness in the Simple Life - Kindle edition by Philip Gulley. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
Living the Quaker Way: Discover the Hidden Happiness in the Simple Life
byPhilip Gulley
Format: Kindle EditionChange
Price:$11.99
----
Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
Quakerism has many admirers but considerably fewer adherents. Gulley, a Quaker pastor and much-published author (The Evolution of Faith), hopes to reach new members with his newest work, part of the inaugural list of a new imprint aimed at the spiritually curious. He explains central Quaker values and practices—simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality—in clear and inviting ways, drawing on Quaker history to provide context and illustration of the distinctive ways of the Religious Society of Friends (another name for Quakers). He also draws on his own life, acknowledging shortcomings in ways that disarm and attest to the Quaker value of integrity of speech. The set of queries at the book&'s end is extremely helpful; queries are spiritual tools for self-examination and reflection that can give readers a small taste of the faith. The author goes light on his trademark charming humor, which is unfortunate; religion goes down easier when preached with a smile. Still, Gulley might make nightstand Friends—people who flirt with Quakerism, reading about it before going to sleep. (Sept.)
---
From Booklist
“I took a test on the Internet,” a newcomer told Quaker pastor Gulley, “and it told me I’d be happy as a Quaker.” Others saying much the same thing reconfirmed Gulley in his “long-held suspicion” that more people are philosophically Quaker than ever join a Quaker meeting. They are attracted by the Quaker way of life, which is best expressed in the basic Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. Gulley devotes a chapter to each testimony—a persuasive homily delivered by a very personable minister—and considers the contemporary appeal of the Quaker understanding of the particular testimony being discussed. His aim throughout is not “for you to seek out the nearest Quaker meeting” but to help others “embrace these values . . . so that our world might be transformed.” In conclusion, he offers a month’s worth of daily queries—examples of the kinds of questions Quakers use to guide themselves in living out the testimonies—for readers’ reflection should they chose to take the Quaker way. --Ray Olson
5.0 out of 5 starsFull to Overflowing with Timeless Wisdom and Insight
ByFaithfulReader.comon October 23, 2013
Format: Hardcover
Philip Gulley is the author of 17 books, host of the PBS programs “Porch Talk with Philip Gulley” and “Across Indiana,” and a contributor to The Saturday Evening Post. More importantly, though, Gulley is a Quaker (the Religious Society of Friends, or Friends Church). His kindness-laced, easygoing style makes reading his work a restful, peaceful endeavor. Quite in opposition to the chronic, hurry-hurry of the day, settling down for a long read is simply medicine to the soul.
And wisdom? LIVING THE QUAKER WAY is full to overflowing with timeless wisdom and insights for bettering not only one’s own heart, mind and soul, but also everyone else’s too. Gulley makes it his mission to keep a sharp lookout for the well-being of everyone who crosses his path. He and his wife make it their lifestyle to live simply, contentedly, peacefully, and with a consistently service-minded purposefulness.
In this lovely resource, Gulley explains what a Quaker is (and what it isn’t). He shares that unity is very important to the Quakers, and yet they allow themselves areas of disagreement, so it is difficult to pinpoint exactly what a Quaker is to outsiders. Quakers, writes Gulley, espouse simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality. In many ways, they aspire to live by the evangelical’s fruits of the Spirit, but while they may use the Bible for a source of their beliefs, they embrace other religious principles and religions as well. Christians would discover that Quakers live their lives as Jesus taught, but they don’t require the sacrifice Jesus gave for their salvation.
Readers will value Gulley’s insertion of today’s modern issues and problems into his timeless text on living simply. He offers real-life scenarios of folks who have gotten on the mindless, endless treadmill of materialism and then opted out (and how they did it and what they gained from their choice). He also hits upon the taxes Americans are forced to pay and how a good portion goes to military support (he again offers alternatives to this standard). Perhaps one of the most fascinating parts of this text is his persuasive section on how to live life more simply (and what the immense gains are when this freer path is chosen).
At the close of the book, Gulley includes a reflective question section where readers ask themselves a question each day for deeper contemplation or for use in a group. Among these thoughtful queries: Do I live simply and promote the right sharing of the world’s bounty? Do I keep my life uncluttered with things and activities, avoiding commitments beyond my strength and light? Do I refuse to let the prevailing culture and media dictate my needs and values? Do I recognize when I have enough? Do I keep myself informed about the effects my style of living is having on the global economy and environment? When differences arise, do I make an earnest effort to end them speedily? Do I treat conflict as an opportunity for growth, and address it with careful attention?
Surely, even with a cursory read through this fine text, readers of many faith traditions will find themselves thoughtfully challenged and encouraged. No wonder Gulley’s work and words are so transcendent.
Reviewed by Michele Howe
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3.0 out of 5 starsIs Quakerism a religion or a way of life?
ByTeddy's Mamaon October 13, 2013
Format: Hardcover
The Society of Friends, or Quakers, is considered a religion that has been around about 400 years. Most people if asked to define Quakers would probably start with how they used to dress like the pilgrims and are rather conservative "religious" folk. Anyone who reads Gulley's book will learn contemporary Quakers don't fit that description. Though they may (or may not) be conservative in their dress or habits they cannot be put in a one-size-fits-all box.
I have always thought the Quakers were an interesting group but did not know much about their beliefs. After reading thisQuaker book some of my thoughts have been confirmed...they are active in political and social issues, live simply, there are meeting houses not churches with many styles of worship, they are generally pacifists. There are others I was not aware of...some meetings have pastors some do not, what they believe is not confined to the bible, there is no formal joining of the meeting, one can join or not and still be considered a Quaker...are a few of the things I learned.
Gulley explores the Quaker Way; simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. His views are interesting and thought-provoking for me. Some I agree with, some I disagree with, and some I am still thinking about.
Right from the first chapter, What is a Quaker?, I found myself surprised by some of his statements and I kept asking myself is the Society of Friends a religion or a way of life, a philosophy? Apparently, it is a question they ask themselves with many different answers. For example, from the first chapter:
"...For some Friends-indeed for most Friends-Quakerism is first a religion, an understanding and experience of God that leads to a certain way of life. But for others it is a way of life rich in its own right, needing no origin in or confirmation from a divine entity."
"... while Quakerism for some Friends is a way of life rooted in our experience of God, that is not the case for all. At one time, I would have mightily resisted that view, but now I am quite willing to welcome as brother and sister those persons whose integrity will not permit them to affirm a god they have not encountered. Though our perceptions of the Divine may differ, our mutual commitment to the Quaker way allows us to stand with one another as Friends and friends."
At the end of the book there are 30 questions, Queries, to consider for yourself. Gulley encourages the reader to use them as a personal check-list of sorts or as a small group discussion. The questions are well worth pondering and discussing.
Overall, I liked the book because I like to hear what others think about God and faith and life. I also liked it because it made me look a bit closer at what, and why, I believe. It's worth a read but probably not for everyone.
This book was sent to me by Waterbrook Multnomah free of charge in exchange for this review.
Comment24 people found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?
----
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Quaker view of how to live the life we are intended to live.
ByJoseph Palenon November 15, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
The Way---
I am much older than Phil Gulley, but am willing to readily admit that he surpasses me in the wisdom department. His two books “ If Grace is True” and “If God is Love” written some years ago with James Mulholland, were very helpful in my growth as a new, middle aged Christian, who had earlier rejected the Church as a den of hypocrites. In this book, I see the source of his wisdom – of course from God, but from God through the practices and beliefs of the Quaker Church. This book is a reminder that the true principles of right living are: Loving God (loving his created Natural Universe) and Loving Others (his created Creatures). This truth is independent of religion, but is especially emphasized by the Quaker Faith. I loved this book. It was another encouragement to continue on the same path, the Way, despite bumps and potholes, and all the hypocrites who appear along the way, as they did in Jesus’ day.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reflection and thoughts
ByChuck Jenkinson September 19, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
I really looked forward to reading this book because I have enjoyed so many of Philip Gulley' s other books and writings. This book speaks directly to me, and in many cases for me. I could not read this book without thinking about the many feelings Phil must have felt while writing this book.
I am reading this book during a period of time when their are people of privilege who want to shut down the government so others could not have health care insurance like they possess. I think about what their thought process might be and wish they would take the time to reflect on concepts such as the Quaker way. Injustice is not a new concept and will probably be with us until the end of time.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
A non-coersive way to live faithfully
ByRuth E. Nayloron December 26, 2013
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
I love Philip Gulley's way of lightening a serious load. His naturally humorous personality permits him to be delightfully entertaining or deeply serious and thought provoking. I think I've read all of his books, beginning with the playful Front Porch tales and more recently his co-authored book on God's grace and this one on the Quaker way.
Marriage moved me away from the Quaker community in which I was raised but I've always valued the emphasis Quakers place upon simplicity, integrity, community, service, non-resistance, contemplation, and peace within. These are the very qualities that Jesus teaches.
There is much to challenge us today within these pages. Gulley does not condemn. He's brutally honest about his own temptations and shortcomings. And in the typically Quaker way, he is not proselytizing. He invites the reader into a way of living that seeks to see "that of God in every human-being" and into being a person of peace, love, forgiveness and grace.
---
4.0 out of 5 stars
An Explanation of Ethics
ByAmazon Customeron November 25, 2013
Format: Kindle Edition
"Living the Quaker Way" is an interesting, easy-to-read book covering what the author sees as the basic ideas of the Quaker faith. The author is careful to point out that the Quaker faith can be viewed as either a religion or a way of life (or both), and that the ideas and beliefs within the faith are extremely varied. Although it seems that the Quaker faith is difficult to "pin down" even for the author, who is a Quaker pastor, he narrows the ideals of the faith down to simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality, creating the five-letter acronym S.P.I.C.E. The author also points out that these five ideals are not exclusive to the Quaker faith or way of life, nor are they even exclusive to any particularly "religious" way of life at all.
I appreciated the author's honesty and openness, and his use of personal stories to illustrate his points. I enjoyed the book a great deal, but did not come away with a very succinct idea of what Quakerism actually is. But, I think that perhaps this was the author's point--the Quaker faith or way of life is so open and varied that it can be a spiritual home for virtually anyone who seeks a faith that is based more on a sound (yet individualized) ethical structure, rather than dogma.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent book on living as a Friend
ByWanda H. Gileson February 25, 2015
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This is the best book that I, a lifelong Friend, have read on Friends faith and practice, particularly practice. Gulley takes up five prime Quaker values---simplicity, community, peace, integrity, and equality. Each receives a thorough, thoughtful, modest, and clear discussion, with a generosity of spirit I found quite remarkable. He is a progressive Friend; he has more than entered the current century. But his values are as strong and solid as those of the founding Friends, and his style is accessible, respectful, and pleasant. I highly recommend this book for a good understanding of contemporary Friends. It is not entirely theoretical; it includes human experience. Very fine.
---
3.0 out of 5 stars
Interesting Insight for a better life from a best-selling author & Quaker Pastor.
ByCristion January 22, 2014
Format: Kindle Edition
The premise of this book intrigued me from the second I read the above description. I was interested in learning about the Quakers and I also wanted to read Philip Gulley's thoughts on applying Quaker principles to live a better, more peaceful life. I did come away from the book feeling like I had my eyes opened to some new ideas that I hadn't thought of before or had thoughts that I have long held confirmed by someone else feeling the same way. The Quaker's are peaceful people and they are all about serving others, living modestly, having integrity, taking care of others and participating and being a part of a tight knit community. All of the Quaker principles mentioned are examined in detail in Living the Quaker Way. Sulley illustrates these principles by being open and relaying personal stories throughout his lifetime that relate to each. I love how honest the author is, he is not perfect but you can tell he truly just wants to be a good and peaceful person. I did feel like there were great thoughts in this book about making the world a better place, especially the section on community. I found myself nodding my head vigorously the whole time. I truly think if we were more connected, closer knit and relied on each other as our grandparents did with their neighbors and even their families, we would all be a little happier and there would be less of a prevalence of depression.
As far as learning more about the Quakers as people and a group, I really didn't feel this book delivered in that area, but then the point of this book was not to preach Quakerism, but to share ideals and principles that would indeed help this world be a better place. This book isn't one that is trying to convert anyone, but it does what it sets out to do, sharing some great insight. Because of that, I would recommend this book if you are looking to better yourself or just enjoy reading inspiration books.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Eat lots of oats?
ByJ. Lietzon October 16, 2013
Format: Hardcover
Living the Quaker Way: Timeless Wisdom for a Better Life Today by Philip Gulley is a discussion of the Quaker beliefs and pillars of simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality. What I can appreciate the most is simplicity in my own life and community as a more overarching issue.
For me, simplicity is an ideal state of being. My reality is that with three kids, school, preschool activities, a lot of doctor's appointments, freelance writing assignments and just plain old life, it seems like an unreachable goal. However, a lot of it is stuff that I do to myself. We make life more complex than it needs to be. The Quakers have some interesting ideas on this.
In current events, there's been so much disunity in our government, with some people fighting just to fight, or so it seems. It seems like the politicians only care about who donates the most money to their ongoing campaigns. The gerrymandering ensures that they'll get re-elected, even if they have a 10 percent or less approval rating, which is what Congress currently has. I think we could all glean some pearls of wisdom from this book.
The book includes discussion questions as well as personal anecdotes. It's an easy read, it's not preachy, and it conveys a lot of material to think about.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
A most thought provoking book...
ByDr. Darryll W. Barksdaleon October 19, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
I like to learn about how other religions think about the world and Pastor Gulley does a great job opening up the Quaker mindset for us to explore. While I may take issue from time to time, I still find the book to be most readable and educational. Understanding the basic premises of any Faith is the first step in truly understanding that Faith and their belief structure. It is not a text on theology per se but rather a statement of beliefs written in a simple yet thought provoking manner. Wonderful and touching personal anecdotes interspersed throughout the book give life to the principles and foundations of the Quaker beliefs. No matter what your Faith, you will find this to be an interesting read and one that perhaps will act in a positive manner to influence your personal thoughts and behaviors. But of course, I have found all of Pastor Gulley's books to do just that.............they all seem to make a positive impact upon the life of the reader.
Living the Quaker Way: Discover the Hidden Happiness in the Simple Life
byPhilip Gulley
Format: Kindle EditionChange
Price:$11.99
----
Editorial Reviews
From Publishers Weekly
Quakerism has many admirers but considerably fewer adherents. Gulley, a Quaker pastor and much-published author (The Evolution of Faith), hopes to reach new members with his newest work, part of the inaugural list of a new imprint aimed at the spiritually curious. He explains central Quaker values and practices—simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality—in clear and inviting ways, drawing on Quaker history to provide context and illustration of the distinctive ways of the Religious Society of Friends (another name for Quakers). He also draws on his own life, acknowledging shortcomings in ways that disarm and attest to the Quaker value of integrity of speech. The set of queries at the book&'s end is extremely helpful; queries are spiritual tools for self-examination and reflection that can give readers a small taste of the faith. The author goes light on his trademark charming humor, which is unfortunate; religion goes down easier when preached with a smile. Still, Gulley might make nightstand Friends—people who flirt with Quakerism, reading about it before going to sleep. (Sept.)
---
From Booklist
“I took a test on the Internet,” a newcomer told Quaker pastor Gulley, “and it told me I’d be happy as a Quaker.” Others saying much the same thing reconfirmed Gulley in his “long-held suspicion” that more people are philosophically Quaker than ever join a Quaker meeting. They are attracted by the Quaker way of life, which is best expressed in the basic Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. Gulley devotes a chapter to each testimony—a persuasive homily delivered by a very personable minister—and considers the contemporary appeal of the Quaker understanding of the particular testimony being discussed. His aim throughout is not “for you to seek out the nearest Quaker meeting” but to help others “embrace these values . . . so that our world might be transformed.” In conclusion, he offers a month’s worth of daily queries—examples of the kinds of questions Quakers use to guide themselves in living out the testimonies—for readers’ reflection should they chose to take the Quaker way. --Ray Olson
5.0 out of 5 starsFull to Overflowing with Timeless Wisdom and Insight
ByFaithfulReader.comon October 23, 2013
Format: Hardcover
Philip Gulley is the author of 17 books, host of the PBS programs “Porch Talk with Philip Gulley” and “Across Indiana,” and a contributor to The Saturday Evening Post. More importantly, though, Gulley is a Quaker (the Religious Society of Friends, or Friends Church). His kindness-laced, easygoing style makes reading his work a restful, peaceful endeavor. Quite in opposition to the chronic, hurry-hurry of the day, settling down for a long read is simply medicine to the soul.
And wisdom? LIVING THE QUAKER WAY is full to overflowing with timeless wisdom and insights for bettering not only one’s own heart, mind and soul, but also everyone else’s too. Gulley makes it his mission to keep a sharp lookout for the well-being of everyone who crosses his path. He and his wife make it their lifestyle to live simply, contentedly, peacefully, and with a consistently service-minded purposefulness.
In this lovely resource, Gulley explains what a Quaker is (and what it isn’t). He shares that unity is very important to the Quakers, and yet they allow themselves areas of disagreement, so it is difficult to pinpoint exactly what a Quaker is to outsiders. Quakers, writes Gulley, espouse simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality. In many ways, they aspire to live by the evangelical’s fruits of the Spirit, but while they may use the Bible for a source of their beliefs, they embrace other religious principles and religions as well. Christians would discover that Quakers live their lives as Jesus taught, but they don’t require the sacrifice Jesus gave for their salvation.
Readers will value Gulley’s insertion of today’s modern issues and problems into his timeless text on living simply. He offers real-life scenarios of folks who have gotten on the mindless, endless treadmill of materialism and then opted out (and how they did it and what they gained from their choice). He also hits upon the taxes Americans are forced to pay and how a good portion goes to military support (he again offers alternatives to this standard). Perhaps one of the most fascinating parts of this text is his persuasive section on how to live life more simply (and what the immense gains are when this freer path is chosen).
At the close of the book, Gulley includes a reflective question section where readers ask themselves a question each day for deeper contemplation or for use in a group. Among these thoughtful queries: Do I live simply and promote the right sharing of the world’s bounty? Do I keep my life uncluttered with things and activities, avoiding commitments beyond my strength and light? Do I refuse to let the prevailing culture and media dictate my needs and values? Do I recognize when I have enough? Do I keep myself informed about the effects my style of living is having on the global economy and environment? When differences arise, do I make an earnest effort to end them speedily? Do I treat conflict as an opportunity for growth, and address it with careful attention?
Surely, even with a cursory read through this fine text, readers of many faith traditions will find themselves thoughtfully challenged and encouraged. No wonder Gulley’s work and words are so transcendent.
Reviewed by Michele Howe
1 comment16 people found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?
Yes
No
Report abuse
3.0 out of 5 starsIs Quakerism a religion or a way of life?
ByTeddy's Mamaon October 13, 2013
Format: Hardcover
The Society of Friends, or Quakers, is considered a religion that has been around about 400 years. Most people if asked to define Quakers would probably start with how they used to dress like the pilgrims and are rather conservative "religious" folk. Anyone who reads Gulley's book will learn contemporary Quakers don't fit that description. Though they may (or may not) be conservative in their dress or habits they cannot be put in a one-size-fits-all box.
I have always thought the Quakers were an interesting group but did not know much about their beliefs. After reading thisQuaker book some of my thoughts have been confirmed...they are active in political and social issues, live simply, there are meeting houses not churches with many styles of worship, they are generally pacifists. There are others I was not aware of...some meetings have pastors some do not, what they believe is not confined to the bible, there is no formal joining of the meeting, one can join or not and still be considered a Quaker...are a few of the things I learned.
Gulley explores the Quaker Way; simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. His views are interesting and thought-provoking for me. Some I agree with, some I disagree with, and some I am still thinking about.
Right from the first chapter, What is a Quaker?, I found myself surprised by some of his statements and I kept asking myself is the Society of Friends a religion or a way of life, a philosophy? Apparently, it is a question they ask themselves with many different answers. For example, from the first chapter:
"...For some Friends-indeed for most Friends-Quakerism is first a religion, an understanding and experience of God that leads to a certain way of life. But for others it is a way of life rich in its own right, needing no origin in or confirmation from a divine entity."
"... while Quakerism for some Friends is a way of life rooted in our experience of God, that is not the case for all. At one time, I would have mightily resisted that view, but now I am quite willing to welcome as brother and sister those persons whose integrity will not permit them to affirm a god they have not encountered. Though our perceptions of the Divine may differ, our mutual commitment to the Quaker way allows us to stand with one another as Friends and friends."
At the end of the book there are 30 questions, Queries, to consider for yourself. Gulley encourages the reader to use them as a personal check-list of sorts or as a small group discussion. The questions are well worth pondering and discussing.
Overall, I liked the book because I like to hear what others think about God and faith and life. I also liked it because it made me look a bit closer at what, and why, I believe. It's worth a read but probably not for everyone.
This book was sent to me by Waterbrook Multnomah free of charge in exchange for this review.
Comment24 people found this helpful. Was this review helpful to you?
----
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Quaker view of how to live the life we are intended to live.
ByJoseph Palenon November 15, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
The Way---
I am much older than Phil Gulley, but am willing to readily admit that he surpasses me in the wisdom department. His two books “ If Grace is True” and “If God is Love” written some years ago with James Mulholland, were very helpful in my growth as a new, middle aged Christian, who had earlier rejected the Church as a den of hypocrites. In this book, I see the source of his wisdom – of course from God, but from God through the practices and beliefs of the Quaker Church. This book is a reminder that the true principles of right living are: Loving God (loving his created Natural Universe) and Loving Others (his created Creatures). This truth is independent of religion, but is especially emphasized by the Quaker Faith. I loved this book. It was another encouragement to continue on the same path, the Way, despite bumps and potholes, and all the hypocrites who appear along the way, as they did in Jesus’ day.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reflection and thoughts
ByChuck Jenkinson September 19, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
I really looked forward to reading this book because I have enjoyed so many of Philip Gulley' s other books and writings. This book speaks directly to me, and in many cases for me. I could not read this book without thinking about the many feelings Phil must have felt while writing this book.
I am reading this book during a period of time when their are people of privilege who want to shut down the government so others could not have health care insurance like they possess. I think about what their thought process might be and wish they would take the time to reflect on concepts such as the Quaker way. Injustice is not a new concept and will probably be with us until the end of time.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
A non-coersive way to live faithfully
ByRuth E. Nayloron December 26, 2013
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
I love Philip Gulley's way of lightening a serious load. His naturally humorous personality permits him to be delightfully entertaining or deeply serious and thought provoking. I think I've read all of his books, beginning with the playful Front Porch tales and more recently his co-authored book on God's grace and this one on the Quaker way.
Marriage moved me away from the Quaker community in which I was raised but I've always valued the emphasis Quakers place upon simplicity, integrity, community, service, non-resistance, contemplation, and peace within. These are the very qualities that Jesus teaches.
There is much to challenge us today within these pages. Gulley does not condemn. He's brutally honest about his own temptations and shortcomings. And in the typically Quaker way, he is not proselytizing. He invites the reader into a way of living that seeks to see "that of God in every human-being" and into being a person of peace, love, forgiveness and grace.
---
4.0 out of 5 stars
An Explanation of Ethics
ByAmazon Customeron November 25, 2013
Format: Kindle Edition
"Living the Quaker Way" is an interesting, easy-to-read book covering what the author sees as the basic ideas of the Quaker faith. The author is careful to point out that the Quaker faith can be viewed as either a religion or a way of life (or both), and that the ideas and beliefs within the faith are extremely varied. Although it seems that the Quaker faith is difficult to "pin down" even for the author, who is a Quaker pastor, he narrows the ideals of the faith down to simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality, creating the five-letter acronym S.P.I.C.E. The author also points out that these five ideals are not exclusive to the Quaker faith or way of life, nor are they even exclusive to any particularly "religious" way of life at all.
I appreciated the author's honesty and openness, and his use of personal stories to illustrate his points. I enjoyed the book a great deal, but did not come away with a very succinct idea of what Quakerism actually is. But, I think that perhaps this was the author's point--the Quaker faith or way of life is so open and varied that it can be a spiritual home for virtually anyone who seeks a faith that is based more on a sound (yet individualized) ethical structure, rather than dogma.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent book on living as a Friend
ByWanda H. Gileson February 25, 2015
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This is the best book that I, a lifelong Friend, have read on Friends faith and practice, particularly practice. Gulley takes up five prime Quaker values---simplicity, community, peace, integrity, and equality. Each receives a thorough, thoughtful, modest, and clear discussion, with a generosity of spirit I found quite remarkable. He is a progressive Friend; he has more than entered the current century. But his values are as strong and solid as those of the founding Friends, and his style is accessible, respectful, and pleasant. I highly recommend this book for a good understanding of contemporary Friends. It is not entirely theoretical; it includes human experience. Very fine.
---
3.0 out of 5 stars
Interesting Insight for a better life from a best-selling author & Quaker Pastor.
ByCristion January 22, 2014
Format: Kindle Edition
The premise of this book intrigued me from the second I read the above description. I was interested in learning about the Quakers and I also wanted to read Philip Gulley's thoughts on applying Quaker principles to live a better, more peaceful life. I did come away from the book feeling like I had my eyes opened to some new ideas that I hadn't thought of before or had thoughts that I have long held confirmed by someone else feeling the same way. The Quaker's are peaceful people and they are all about serving others, living modestly, having integrity, taking care of others and participating and being a part of a tight knit community. All of the Quaker principles mentioned are examined in detail in Living the Quaker Way. Sulley illustrates these principles by being open and relaying personal stories throughout his lifetime that relate to each. I love how honest the author is, he is not perfect but you can tell he truly just wants to be a good and peaceful person. I did feel like there were great thoughts in this book about making the world a better place, especially the section on community. I found myself nodding my head vigorously the whole time. I truly think if we were more connected, closer knit and relied on each other as our grandparents did with their neighbors and even their families, we would all be a little happier and there would be less of a prevalence of depression.
As far as learning more about the Quakers as people and a group, I really didn't feel this book delivered in that area, but then the point of this book was not to preach Quakerism, but to share ideals and principles that would indeed help this world be a better place. This book isn't one that is trying to convert anyone, but it does what it sets out to do, sharing some great insight. Because of that, I would recommend this book if you are looking to better yourself or just enjoy reading inspiration books.
---
5.0 out of 5 stars
Eat lots of oats?
ByJ. Lietzon October 16, 2013
Format: Hardcover
Living the Quaker Way: Timeless Wisdom for a Better Life Today by Philip Gulley is a discussion of the Quaker beliefs and pillars of simplicity, peace, integrity, community and equality. What I can appreciate the most is simplicity in my own life and community as a more overarching issue.
For me, simplicity is an ideal state of being. My reality is that with three kids, school, preschool activities, a lot of doctor's appointments, freelance writing assignments and just plain old life, it seems like an unreachable goal. However, a lot of it is stuff that I do to myself. We make life more complex than it needs to be. The Quakers have some interesting ideas on this.
In current events, there's been so much disunity in our government, with some people fighting just to fight, or so it seems. It seems like the politicians only care about who donates the most money to their ongoing campaigns. The gerrymandering ensures that they'll get re-elected, even if they have a 10 percent or less approval rating, which is what Congress currently has. I think we could all glean some pearls of wisdom from this book.
The book includes discussion questions as well as personal anecdotes. It's an easy read, it's not preachy, and it conveys a lot of material to think about.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
A most thought provoking book...
ByDr. Darryll W. Barksdaleon October 19, 2013
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
I like to learn about how other religions think about the world and Pastor Gulley does a great job opening up the Quaker mindset for us to explore. While I may take issue from time to time, I still find the book to be most readable and educational. Understanding the basic premises of any Faith is the first step in truly understanding that Faith and their belief structure. It is not a text on theology per se but rather a statement of beliefs written in a simple yet thought provoking manner. Wonderful and touching personal anecdotes interspersed throughout the book give life to the principles and foundations of the Quaker beliefs. No matter what your Faith, you will find this to be an interesting read and one that perhaps will act in a positive manner to influence your personal thoughts and behaviors. But of course, I have found all of Pastor Gulley's books to do just that.............they all seem to make a positive impact upon the life of the reader.
