Author Description
In this sequel to his immensely popular bestseller Front Porch Tales, Quaker writer Philip Gulley envelops readers once again in a rare world of plainspoken and honest values. These tender stories of his life are gathered around the enduring themes of the great spiritual virtues: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Each story reminds us how we long for such virtues in a world sorely in need of the love and hope they bring.With his folksy style and rustic ear, Gulley treats his readers to a great variety of personalities -- from the loveable to the eccentric -- who make small town life fascinating. Readers will discover a simpler way of life, where things are less complicated and folks care for one another and are willing to do what is right -- no matter the cost.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
How can the practice of traditional spiritual virtues provide a framework for navigating the complexities of modern life? Philip Gulley, a Quaker writer, utilizes his background in ministry and small-town observation to examine the application of virtues such as kindness, patience, and self-control. Through a collection of personal anecdotes and character sketches, he argues that these enduring values offer a necessary antidote to the complications and moral challenges of contemporary society.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A series of vignettes focused on small-town community dynamics
- Reflections on the nine fruits of the spirit
- Character studies of eccentric and relatable local personalities
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide a systematic theological treatise or academic analysis of Quakerism
- It does not address global political or economic structures beyond the local community level
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Readers frequently note the accessible, conversational tone of the prose, which makes the spiritual reflections easy to digest. Experts highlight this as a popular example of contemporary inspirational literature that emphasizes community-based ethics over abstract dogma.
Page Count:
224
Publication Date:
2001-11-06
Publisher:
HarperOne
ISBN-10:
0060006307
ISBN-13:
9780060006303
Memoir
Protestantism
Christian Living
Quaker
Essays
Literature & Fiction
Small Town
Worship & Devotion
Devotionals
Inspirational