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Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America
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. 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 Lewis. In Across That Bridge, Lewis draws from his experience as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement to offer timeless guidance to anyone seeking to live virtuously and transform the world. His wisdom, poignant recollections, and powerful ideas will inspire a new generation to usher in a freer, more peaceful society. The Civil Rights Movement gave rise to the protest culture we know today, and the experiences of leaders like Lewis have never been more relevant. Now, more than ever, this nation needs a strong and moral voice to guide an engaged population through visionary change. Lewis was a leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. He was chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and played a key role in the struggle to end segregation. Despite more than forty arrests, physical attacks, and serious injuries, Lewis remained a devoted advocate of the philosophy of nonviolence. He is the author of his autobiography, Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of a Movement, and is the recipient of numerous awards from national and international institutions, including the Lincoln Medal; the John F. Kennedy "Profile in Courage" Lifetime Achievement Award (the only one of its kind ever awarded); the NAACP Spingarn Medal; and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor, among many others. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia. "The most important lesson I have learned in the fifty years I have spent working toward the building of a better world is that the true work of social transformation starts within. It begins inside your own heart and mind, because the battleground of human transformation is really, more than any other thing, the struggle within the human consciousness to believe and accept what is true. Thus to truly revolutionize our society, we must first revolutionize ourselves. We must be the change we seek if we are to effectively demand transformation from others." --from John Lewis's Across That Bridge
180 pages, Hardcover
First published May 15, 2012
About the author
John Lewis
30 books845 followersJohn 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. He was a leader in the American Civil Rights Movement and chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), playing a key role in the struggle to end segregation. He was a member of the Democratic Party and was one of the most liberal legislators.
Barack Obama honoured Lewis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and they marched hand in hand in Selma on the 50th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday attack (March 7, 1965).
Barack Obama honoured Lewis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and they marched hand in hand in Selma on the 50th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday attack (March 7, 1965).
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July 20, 2020
Audiobook ....read by Keith David
John Lewis died just a few days ago --July 17th, 2020.
Watching the news over the week-end --so many powerful old historical clips of him either fighting for voting rights, desegregation in housing, efforts to curb disproportionate use of police brutality against Black America, and his actions to end legalized racial segregation in the United States, I felt inspired to read this book.
While listening to this book -- I felt an urgency to take in his words as if my life depended on it.
I'll 'gladly' listen to this a second time too --its filled with 'nuggets-of-inspiration, advice, milestones, wisdom, a personal 'ground-of-being' of 'where' to come from when fighting for change,
etc. etc.
I found this book energizing.
Some of the things I took from this book were:
...."When the World is ready for change, we will see change"
....With the election of Obama, our country showed some promising aspects....an important step forward. It was another milestone on the road to freedom..... But with the next election .....with Trump --we've seen a few (ha, a few?).... steps back.
....We've also see some new important work in 2020 with regards to racism:
Even 'today' -- July 20th, .... Thousands of United States workers walk out in a strike for Black Lives.
.... John Lewis said .... "Each generation must do their own work in creating an even more 'just' world. Justice will always be necessary".
John Lewis also said, "let us return to the work that we all need to be doing… With integrity and embracing our differences".
.... I felt John Lewis, (one of the BIG SIX leaders of groups who organized the 1963 March on Washington), was inspired by what he was seeing this year....in 2020...with "Black Lives Matter"--
that people are beginning to see how important it is that our relationships together go far beyond our borders, our color. What happens in Asia, (for example), affects things that happen on Wall Street. We are one big family -- the human family. We affect each other.
....John Lewis and the great leaders of the civil rights movement, the men who took the lead for non-violent action....knew the risks. Each day, and each year, when more and more people joined marching, they were people marching together in the spirit of one voice.
....John said: "What was is the purpose of a nation if not to empower people to live together peacefully in one nation".
....Much of this book set me down a road of looking at my own -individual responsibility: physically, emotionally, economically, artistically, intellectually, and spiritually ...of what can I do -- where do I start -- I want to join this team -- that Black Lives Matter -- that all lives matter -- that all 'non-white' people all matter!!!!
....He said: "As individuals we evolve from learning from our mistakes. As a nation we evolve from our choices and our collective minds with dignity and justice"
When we begin to function at the level of consciousness, putting our collective minds together, we can begin to put down hate.
Each generation must learn to embrace struggle -- and continue the work where past generations left off.
....John said. (John said a lot) >>> lol >>>
In all his years of being in the front lines of social justice -the 'work' -true work -- always begins in our own hearts. We need to examine ourselves. Look at our hate, our prejudices, our judgments, our evaluations, our righteousness, of everyone around us. Including our family and friends. We need to do our own inner work within ourselves before we can revolutionize a society.
....People often asked John Lewis --"how did he do it?" "How did he continue fighting with non-violence for years and years (arrested 40 times), yet never once fought back with his own violence?
He came from love. Love, kindness, forgiveness, unity, will always be more powerful than hate.
.... John talked a lot about Faith....the power of faith. Without it -- there can be no change.
Even tragedy is a great equalizer… It can be viewed as an opportunity to our personal growth. The problems we face with ourselves -- fighting for cancer, addictions, grief, resentments, anger,....etc.
are problems we have needed to move us forward..
We are either moving forward with the divisions, anger hate, and self righteousness ..... keeping our past stories 'alive' --stuck --and indicative -- contracting inward --not speaking up ( fears and/or discomfort a barrier) - being right with our egos -- etc.
or....
We are moving forward with unity, love, forgiveness, letting go of our past stories, (not letting them have power over us anymore), looking to see what we can do to create harmony -- and creating the change we want to see.
It takes courage, work, persistence, and patience to be a source -a stand for working relationships - staying involved with family, community, confrontations, communications.
In the same ways we must push ourselves to speak our truth - with the intention to create positive changes -- tap into our 'faith'..... Trust that it's possible to heal evil, anger, biases, hatred, poverty, old pain, abuse, injustice, bitterness, wrongdoings, and unshakable hardships ---
John talked about our past stories -- being more of [an illusion] -- rather than being of 'absolute truth'....
....He asked us to think about what we've most feared. It doesn't have to have power over us. No one has the power to harm another person. It's the way we react, our perceptions, that keep us stuck. And then we make our points of view 'right' --rather than 'letting go' --
JOHN ALWAYS LET GO.... He was clear of his purpose to move forward for the greater just!!!
If we stand for love and unity -- regardless of how much adversity we've had ---if we are willing to put the hate aside --
our own individual lives will be filled with much more happiness.
I thought this book/audiobook was incredibly valuable -- a great tool - empowering tool -- to continue to navigate these complexities -- move forward -- with a better understanding of ways I can make a difference - peacefully!
"Freedom is not a state; it is an act. It's not some enchanted garden perched high on a distant plateau where we can finally sit down and rest. Freedom is the continuous action we are mistake, and each generation let's do it as part to create an even more fair, more just society".
John Lewis died just a few days ago --July 17th, 2020.
Watching the news over the week-end --so many powerful old historical clips of him either fighting for voting rights, desegregation in housing, efforts to curb disproportionate use of police brutality against Black America, and his actions to end legalized racial segregation in the United States, I felt inspired to read this book.
While listening to this book -- I felt an urgency to take in his words as if my life depended on it.
I'll 'gladly' listen to this a second time too --its filled with 'nuggets-of-inspiration, advice, milestones, wisdom, a personal 'ground-of-being' of 'where' to come from when fighting for change,
etc. etc.
I found this book energizing.
Some of the things I took from this book were:
...."When the World is ready for change, we will see change"
....With the election of Obama, our country showed some promising aspects....an important step forward. It was another milestone on the road to freedom..... But with the next election .....with Trump --we've seen a few (ha, a few?).... steps back.
....We've also see some new important work in 2020 with regards to racism:
Even 'today' -- July 20th, .... Thousands of United States workers walk out in a strike for Black Lives.
.... John Lewis said .... "Each generation must do their own work in creating an even more 'just' world. Justice will always be necessary".
John Lewis also said, "let us return to the work that we all need to be doing… With integrity and embracing our differences".
.... I felt John Lewis, (one of the BIG SIX leaders of groups who organized the 1963 March on Washington), was inspired by what he was seeing this year....in 2020...with "Black Lives Matter"--
that people are beginning to see how important it is that our relationships together go far beyond our borders, our color. What happens in Asia, (for example), affects things that happen on Wall Street. We are one big family -- the human family. We affect each other.
....John Lewis and the great leaders of the civil rights movement, the men who took the lead for non-violent action....knew the risks. Each day, and each year, when more and more people joined marching, they were people marching together in the spirit of one voice.
....John said: "What was is the purpose of a nation if not to empower people to live together peacefully in one nation".
....Much of this book set me down a road of looking at my own -individual responsibility: physically, emotionally, economically, artistically, intellectually, and spiritually ...of what can I do -- where do I start -- I want to join this team -- that Black Lives Matter -- that all lives matter -- that all 'non-white' people all matter!!!!
....He said: "As individuals we evolve from learning from our mistakes. As a nation we evolve from our choices and our collective minds with dignity and justice"
When we begin to function at the level of consciousness, putting our collective minds together, we can begin to put down hate.
Each generation must learn to embrace struggle -- and continue the work where past generations left off.
....John said. (John said a lot) >>> lol >>>
In all his years of being in the front lines of social justice -the 'work' -true work -- always begins in our own hearts. We need to examine ourselves. Look at our hate, our prejudices, our judgments, our evaluations, our righteousness, of everyone around us. Including our family and friends. We need to do our own inner work within ourselves before we can revolutionize a society.
....People often asked John Lewis --"how did he do it?" "How did he continue fighting with non-violence for years and years (arrested 40 times), yet never once fought back with his own violence?
He came from love. Love, kindness, forgiveness, unity, will always be more powerful than hate.
.... John talked a lot about Faith....the power of faith. Without it -- there can be no change.
Even tragedy is a great equalizer… It can be viewed as an opportunity to our personal growth. The problems we face with ourselves -- fighting for cancer, addictions, grief, resentments, anger,....etc.
are problems we have needed to move us forward..
We are either moving forward with the divisions, anger hate, and self righteousness ..... keeping our past stories 'alive' --stuck --and indicative -- contracting inward --not speaking up ( fears and/or discomfort a barrier) - being right with our egos -- etc.
or....
We are moving forward with unity, love, forgiveness, letting go of our past stories, (not letting them have power over us anymore), looking to see what we can do to create harmony -- and creating the change we want to see.
It takes courage, work, persistence, and patience to be a source -a stand for working relationships - staying involved with family, community, confrontations, communications.
In the same ways we must push ourselves to speak our truth - with the intention to create positive changes -- tap into our 'faith'..... Trust that it's possible to heal evil, anger, biases, hatred, poverty, old pain, abuse, injustice, bitterness, wrongdoings, and unshakable hardships ---
John talked about our past stories -- being more of [an illusion] -- rather than being of 'absolute truth'....
....He asked us to think about what we've most feared. It doesn't have to have power over us. No one has the power to harm another person. It's the way we react, our perceptions, that keep us stuck. And then we make our points of view 'right' --rather than 'letting go' --
JOHN ALWAYS LET GO.... He was clear of his purpose to move forward for the greater just!!!
If we stand for love and unity -- regardless of how much adversity we've had ---if we are willing to put the hate aside --
our own individual lives will be filled with much more happiness.
I thought this book/audiobook was incredibly valuable -- a great tool - empowering tool -- to continue to navigate these complexities -- move forward -- with a better understanding of ways I can make a difference - peacefully!
"Freedom is not a state; it is an act. It's not some enchanted garden perched high on a distant plateau where we can finally sit down and rest. Freedom is the continuous action we are mistake, and each generation let's do it as part to create an even more fair, more just society".
July 25, 2020
With the passing of this hero of the Civil Rights movement and “Conscience of the Congress” I think many could benefit from this memoir and extended essay. The audiobook version I listened to 5 months ago is particularly suited for those who need solace from the current strife and inspiration that change is possible in the midst of the current polarized politics and emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement on the world stage.
I appreciated the story of how he evolved from a poor sharecropper’s son experiencing the injustices of Jim Crow system in rural Alabama to possession of a belief in the mission to change the system with the combination of civil disobedience combined with Christian love and forgiveness. His revelations from reading about Gandhi’s methods of peaceful resistance was moving to experience and the timely mentoring by Marin Luther King was exciting to read about.
The messages that we are all part of the human family and that its members who are driven by hate and racism are deserving of love and forgiveness for their blindness is such a tough road. Without any religious faith I personally seem to miss a lot on the power of peaceful resistance and speaking truth to effect change. And the courage to face beatings without running or fighting back in his early work defying segregation at lunch counters is beyond imagining as something I could do. And the facing down of policemen with clubs at the Pettus Bridge in Selma we have all seen in videos feels suicidal. His detailed revelations about that critical showdown make it clear that indeed he saw he was facing a significant likelihood of death, over which he admits experiencing fear like anyone would. The fear of the continued existence of institutionalized racism seemed larger somehow, that along with doing right by God’s plan.
It was fun to experience his success in getting elected to Congress and the great uplift he felt with Obama’s election. It was also satisfying to hear him speak of forming friendships with Republicans he disagreed with on many issues. His patience and persistence in submitting certain bills year after year was amazing. For example, the bill to establish the National Museum of African American History and Culture was something he continued to resubmit for 15 years before getting passed. And his contribution was part of efforts to create the museum that started over 80 years previously.
Though his courage and persistence seem superhuman, he advises that we all can play a part in effecting change and that the hardest step is the first ones to make a revolution within one’s own heart and mind and embrace the idea that changes toward a more just society is not only possible but absolutely necessary.
I appreciated the story of how he evolved from a poor sharecropper’s son experiencing the injustices of Jim Crow system in rural Alabama to possession of a belief in the mission to change the system with the combination of civil disobedience combined with Christian love and forgiveness. His revelations from reading about Gandhi’s methods of peaceful resistance was moving to experience and the timely mentoring by Marin Luther King was exciting to read about.
The messages that we are all part of the human family and that its members who are driven by hate and racism are deserving of love and forgiveness for their blindness is such a tough road. Without any religious faith I personally seem to miss a lot on the power of peaceful resistance and speaking truth to effect change. And the courage to face beatings without running or fighting back in his early work defying segregation at lunch counters is beyond imagining as something I could do. And the facing down of policemen with clubs at the Pettus Bridge in Selma we have all seen in videos feels suicidal. His detailed revelations about that critical showdown make it clear that indeed he saw he was facing a significant likelihood of death, over which he admits experiencing fear like anyone would. The fear of the continued existence of institutionalized racism seemed larger somehow, that along with doing right by God’s plan.
It was fun to experience his success in getting elected to Congress and the great uplift he felt with Obama’s election. It was also satisfying to hear him speak of forming friendships with Republicans he disagreed with on many issues. His patience and persistence in submitting certain bills year after year was amazing. For example, the bill to establish the National Museum of African American History and Culture was something he continued to resubmit for 15 years before getting passed. And his contribution was part of efforts to create the museum that started over 80 years previously.
Though his courage and persistence seem superhuman, he advises that we all can play a part in effecting change and that the hardest step is the first ones to make a revolution within one’s own heart and mind and embrace the idea that changes toward a more just society is not only possible but absolutely necessary.
July 13, 2017
An inspiring read for anyone seeking to bring justice, peace and love to the world.
July 15, 2012
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”. I would take that a step further and say that every voting individual should read this book.
This is a short book that packs a powerful punch regarding how to effect non-violent social transformation in the world (faith; patience; study; truth; peace; love; reconciliation).
John Lewis’ life experience and his commitment to continue to strive for an almost idyllic peaceful world is impressive (to say the least), awe-inspiring and admirable.
I was a bit nervous at first when I saw that the first chapter was entitled “Faith”, but as I read on I was appreciative of the Congressman’s ability to speak in spiritual terms that are not necessarily religiously specific most of the time. Any time religion is mixed up with politics I have a hard time listening to what’s being said, as it’s my opinion that this country has lost its way in that we were founded on separation of church and state and at this point, there is no separation at all. We may as well hold our elections in one of those stadium-size evangelical “churches” with the big television screens.
But I digress – regardless of one’s political affiliation or beliefs, I think Congressman Lewis speaks to the humanity in us all and does so extremely well.
This is a short book that packs a powerful punch regarding how to effect non-violent social transformation in the world (faith; patience; study; truth; peace; love; reconciliation).
John Lewis’ life experience and his commitment to continue to strive for an almost idyllic peaceful world is impressive (to say the least), awe-inspiring and admirable.
I was a bit nervous at first when I saw that the first chapter was entitled “Faith”, but as I read on I was appreciative of the Congressman’s ability to speak in spiritual terms that are not necessarily religiously specific most of the time. Any time religion is mixed up with politics I have a hard time listening to what’s being said, as it’s my opinion that this country has lost its way in that we were founded on separation of church and state and at this point, there is no separation at all. We may as well hold our elections in one of those stadium-size evangelical “churches” with the big television screens.
But I digress – regardless of one’s political affiliation or beliefs, I think Congressman Lewis speaks to the humanity in us all and does so extremely well.
August 16, 2013
This is primer on activism using Lewis’ life and the civil rights movement as examples. It is thought provoking and an excellent summary of the most basic principles of non-violence. Best of all, it’s realistic. Lewis is no pie-in-the-sky hippie. He’s a national treasure and we need to hear more from him.
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September 22, 2019A self-help book for activists, specifically focusing on the values necessary to make change. 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. 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. 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.
I have to admit, while I approached this material with skepticism, I couldn't help but look at our present moment and feel actual optimism, if not for what the world is, at least for what I can do for my own self. And that was unexpected, even extraordinary.
I have to admit, while I approached this material with skepticism, I couldn't help but look at our present moment and feel actual optimism, if not for what the world is, at least for what I can do for my own self. And that was unexpected, even extraordinary.
February 2, 2013
Courageous, hopeful and inspiring civil rights leader John Lewis is one of my heroes. 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. 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. (Thanks Laura!) In beautiful prose that sounds like you are hearing him speak, John Lewis discusses the importance of faith, patience, study, truth, peace, love, and reconciliation. 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. As he writes, "All of our work, all our struggle, all our days add up to one purpose: to reconcile ourselves to the truth, and finally accept once and for all that we are one people, one family, the human family, that we are all emanations of one divine source and that source is Love."
December 12, 2017
A beautiful book. After reading this, Civil Rights leader and Congressman John Lewis is one of my new heroes. I recommend this book to anyone who cares about truth, goodness and working for justice. So much wisdom, but a couple of my favorite quotes:
"Ours is the struggle of a lifetime, or maybe even many lifetimes, and each one of us in every generation must do our part. And if we believe in the change we seek, then it is easy to commit to doing all we can, because the responsibility is ours alone to build a better society and a more peaceful world."
"We have come a long way, but there is still a great deal of work to do. There is still too much separation and division, too much hatred and discrimination in our nation and our world today. But the presence of evil does not negate the power of the good."
"Ours is the struggle of a lifetime, or maybe even many lifetimes, and each one of us in every generation must do our part. And if we believe in the change we seek, then it is easy to commit to doing all we can, because the responsibility is ours alone to build a better society and a more peaceful world."
"We have come a long way, but there is still a great deal of work to do. There is still too much separation and division, too much hatred and discrimination in our nation and our world today. But the presence of evil does not negate the power of the good."
April 7, 2018
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. All of these aspects were put into action in the Civil Rights movement in which Mr. Lewis played such an important role. The aspects include faith, patience, study, truth, love, and reconciliation. 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. Reading this book has given me hope and has renewed my resolve to keep working. We have within us the ability to affect change for the better and to live in truth. The tenets in this book can help us achieve our dreams.
February 25, 2017
These inspirational essays describe the virtues and moral qualities that empowered the author in his fight against the injustices that denied equal rights and opportunities to African-American citizens of the United States. 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.
They are still relevant today in a time when one is seeking to oppose authoritarian leaders and those who would be despots, and injustice. They offer a guide on how to act in a civilized manner as part of the resistance and achieve a better and more just world for all.
They are still relevant today in a time when one is seeking to oppose authoritarian leaders and those who would be despots, and injustice. They offer a guide on how to act in a civilized manner as part of the resistance and achieve a better and more just world for all.
December 30, 2017
If there was ever a book I needed at a certain time, it was this one. The subtitle says it all: Across That Bridge is a slim volume of six short essays, each on a particular theme (faith, patience, study, truth, peace, love) and presenting lessons from the civil rights movement that can be used to guide civic engagement today. Probably the most important lesson for me was the one on patience, and the idea that one should not despair in the short term but keep one's "eyes on the prize" and the ultimate goal of a freer, more peaceful society.
October 14, 2017
This book was one of the most profound, intelligent, thought provoking works I have ever read. It challenged me to think of how I view the political & moral climate & how I choose to react. Every page is filled with lines that are quotable. 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. Truly an incredible experience reading this book. I highly recommend it for all.
March 1, 2022
John Lewis is inspiring.
I have survived the worst aggression, all the attacks mounted against dreamers to stamp out the light that they see. I have been rejected, hated, oppressed, beaten, jailed, and have almost died only to live another day. I have witnessed betrayal, corruption, bombing, lunacy, conspiracy, and even assassination—and I have still kept marching on. And despite every attempt to keep me down, I have not been shaken. (p. 11)
Lewis, a Civil Rights leader in the US and a Congressman representing Georgia between 1987 and 2020, had a profound commitment to nonviolence. He believed violence harms both the perpetrator and victim. No one is born hating, he argued; the perpetrators of violence "began their lives in innocence but were taught to hate, abuse, and draw distinctions between themselves and others" (p. 83). We are part of a community that is harmed by violence anywhere.
Nonviolence is not passive; withstanding others' violence is "an act of compassion and love that helped release millions of white Southerners from the burdens inherent in the work of hate" (p. 141). Nonviolence requires patience; effective action is persistent, dedicated and determined. We do not change the world in one fell swoop, but through a patient and committed journey.
Lewis talked about walking the halls of Congress – not exactly a bastion of peace and love – saying "Hello, brother" to passing members of Congress, those he agreed with and those he didn't. As he argued, "Every positive thought we pass between us makes room for more light. And if we do more than think, then our actions clear a path for even more light" (p. 157). Imagine if each of us attempted this today?
Lewis asked himself, “What would Martin do? What would Bobby Kennedy do in this situation?” (p. 89). I would add, "What would John Lewis do?"
My copy of Across that Bridge begins with a letter from John Lewis posthumously published in the New York Times. Read his letter good-bye or this book when you need inspiration.
I have survived the worst aggression, all the attacks mounted against dreamers to stamp out the light that they see. I have been rejected, hated, oppressed, beaten, jailed, and have almost died only to live another day. I have witnessed betrayal, corruption, bombing, lunacy, conspiracy, and even assassination—and I have still kept marching on. And despite every attempt to keep me down, I have not been shaken. (p. 11)
Lewis, a Civil Rights leader in the US and a Congressman representing Georgia between 1987 and 2020, had a profound commitment to nonviolence. He believed violence harms both the perpetrator and victim. No one is born hating, he argued; the perpetrators of violence "began their lives in innocence but were taught to hate, abuse, and draw distinctions between themselves and others" (p. 83). We are part of a community that is harmed by violence anywhere.
Nonviolence is not passive; withstanding others' violence is "an act of compassion and love that helped release millions of white Southerners from the burdens inherent in the work of hate" (p. 141). Nonviolence requires patience; effective action is persistent, dedicated and determined. We do not change the world in one fell swoop, but through a patient and committed journey.
Lewis talked about walking the halls of Congress – not exactly a bastion of peace and love – saying "Hello, brother" to passing members of Congress, those he agreed with and those he didn't. As he argued, "Every positive thought we pass between us makes room for more light. And if we do more than think, then our actions clear a path for even more light" (p. 157). Imagine if each of us attempted this today?
Lewis asked himself, “What would Martin do? What would Bobby Kennedy do in this situation?” (p. 89). I would add, "What would John Lewis do?"
My copy of Across that Bridge begins with a letter from John Lewis posthumously published in the New York Times. Read his letter good-bye or this book when you need inspiration.
April 26, 2022
I listened to the audiobook, and if I were reading this as a book, I would not have put it down.
Mr. Lewis led a long life of struggle, starting with growing up as a sharecropper and becoming an activist, and finally a US Senator.
He faces racial discrimination every day because as he puts it, " I was born Black".
We hear how his family were sharecroppers, not much more than slaves, in his words. Work all day in the fields for the farm owner, buy your seeds from a company store, which were overpriced, so you barely be able to pay for them. That way the farm owner could profit from your underpaid work. Even facing this, Mr. Lewis's father, was able to buy 300 acres of farmland.
Mr. Lewis was beaten as an activist, but following the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, they remained non-violent.
Mr. Lewis' life was as amazing as the man himself.
Each section is broken down as suggestions to promote change in yourself as well as others.
Wonderful audio book.
Mr. Lewis led a long life of struggle, starting with growing up as a sharecropper and becoming an activist, and finally a US Senator.
He faces racial discrimination every day because as he puts it, " I was born Black".
We hear how his family were sharecroppers, not much more than slaves, in his words. Work all day in the fields for the farm owner, buy your seeds from a company store, which were overpriced, so you barely be able to pay for them. That way the farm owner could profit from your underpaid work. Even facing this, Mr. Lewis's father, was able to buy 300 acres of farmland.
Mr. Lewis was beaten as an activist, but following the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, they remained non-violent.
Mr. Lewis' life was as amazing as the man himself.
Each section is broken down as suggestions to promote change in yourself as well as others.
Wonderful audio book.
March 28, 2021
The trouble with reviewing an audio book, especially one that I took 6 months to list/read, is it is hard to remember things.
But today I heard him (the reader - Keith David, I think) talk about forgiveness. He (and others) had been attacked in Rock Hill, SC, and they had not pressed charges. Years later, he met the man who had attacked him and he apologized. Not clear if he was forgiven but his apology was accepted. He notes that, had charges been pressed all those years ago, this discussion would not have been possible. The man would not have been able to come to the realization that an apology would be necessary and would be accepted.
John Lewis is already missed. But perhaps his loss is one reason that Georgia was able to elect two Democratic senators this year. They probably haven't done that since the passage of the Civil Rights Act. LBJ was told that he just succeeded in losing the South for generations. So we can have hope.
But today I heard him (the reader - Keith David, I think) talk about forgiveness. He (and others) had been attacked in Rock Hill, SC, and they had not pressed charges. Years later, he met the man who had attacked him and he apologized. Not clear if he was forgiven but his apology was accepted. He notes that, had charges been pressed all those years ago, this discussion would not have been possible. The man would not have been able to come to the realization that an apology would be necessary and would be accepted.
John Lewis is already missed. But perhaps his loss is one reason that Georgia was able to elect two Democratic senators this year. They probably haven't done that since the passage of the Civil Rights Act. LBJ was told that he just succeeded in losing the South for generations. So we can have hope.
September 14, 2013
I just re-read this book for a class I'm teaching this semester on the history, philosophy, and practice of nonviolence. It's a smaller book, broken up into sections on foundational lessons from Lewis's life, like "Faith," "Patience," "Peace," and "Love." 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. These are perhaps the most powerful, for Lewis's generosity of spirit and commitment to justice shine through brightly, illuminating the possibilities of what it means to be fully human in our world and resist brutality and oppression. A beautiful book, and a very teachable book. (My students this term have loved it, and it has opened up some very rich conversations.)
January 5, 2018
I have always admired John Lewis. 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. However, Lewis' involvement in the fight for social justice did not end after the 50s and 60s. This short book is Lewis' guide for the young activists in the world today. 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. I often found myself highlighting Lewis' words while reading and making note of the advice he gives in each chapter. This is a fantastic book for anyone, no matter what age, interested in helping improve the lives of others and changing the world in which we live in today.
April 3, 2014
Across that Bridge is beautiful and inspiring book. Congressman Lewis' book is comprised of three essays on faith, patience, and peace. This book provides tremendous insight on how to have a more fulfilling life. Also, Congressman Lewis writes about his experience of being beaten, and his incarceration. 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. Additionally, Congressman Lewis' book is very spiritual and courageous. The most important lesson Congressman Lewis provides is the necessity of inner transformation.
May 21, 2015
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."
This book is an exploration of the strategy used to fight racism during the Civil Rights Movement of the 60's. It's radical idea of responding to violence and hate with simple love comes directly from the source of Christianity. Take your time reading this--it is one of the most inspiring books you'll come across.
This book is an exploration of the strategy used to fight racism during the Civil Rights Movement of the 60's. It's radical idea of responding to violence and hate with simple love comes directly from the source of Christianity. Take your time reading this--it is one of the most inspiring books you'll come across.
February 8, 2018
A book from 2012 that is so appropriate at this time in our country. 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. He shares about his life and his experiences during the Civil Rights movement. The book outlines a process for peaceful protest. The sections are titled: faith, patience, study, act, peace, love and reconciliation. Reading this book helped me to feel some hope. I am grateful that John Lewis shared his story and for his work in Congress.
May 14, 2021
The late John Lewis offers his thoughts on social activism in this short book. Speaking from his own experiences in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, Lewis provides guidance for the activists of today and tomorrow. A contrast is called to mind between the aimless rioting and looting seen in present day, and the studied, planned, non-violent approaches of the earlier era, that led to an end of segregation and other injustices in the American South. Lewis makes frequent references to examples from history, and the words of peaceful leaders of the past, to support his points. While at times he comes off as overly optimistic about the future of America and the potentialities of people throughout the world, he lived a life that confirms what he says, and he earned that optimism.
April 19, 2021
The entire time I was reading this book, I couldn't help but wish everyone's faith was this beautiful.
I didn't know too much about John Lewis beyond the very basics, and I learned so much about his life and all of his vast accomplishments. And through all of the hate and hurt, he witnessed and felt, he had so much overwhelming hope in humanity. He truly believed with peaceful persistence, the truth and good would prevail.
I read this book in a day and I don't regret a single second of it.
Triggers: racism, slavery, violence
Rep: Black author
I didn't know too much about John Lewis beyond the very basics, and I learned so much about his life and all of his vast accomplishments. And through all of the hate and hurt, he witnessed and felt, he had so much overwhelming hope in humanity. He truly believed with peaceful persistence, the truth and good would prevail.
I read this book in a day and I don't regret a single second of it.
Triggers: racism, slavery, violence
Rep: Black author
June 11, 2019
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. Across That Bridge is worth reading for most Americans because it shines a light on an extremely important era in American history. One thing I enjoyed in the book was all of the small biographical details about leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. The part of the book I liked best was Lewis's thorough explanation of the philosophy of the non-violent movement. I have taught this for years, and it was good to hear that I've been on the right track, but the depth and nuance of his explanation deepened my understanding considerably. However, there were a few things about the book that cause me to lower my rating. Much of the book is a recounting of events in the Civil Rights Movement. For many people, that review would be helpful, but since I teach US history, a lot of that information was not new to me. 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. Many of the principles seemed self-evident and therefore not particularly interesting. For instance he spent many pages on the idea that change takes time, reformers will need to be patient. Finally, Lewis is too liberal for my political views. For instance he argues that people are born good, and that racism occurs because people have been poorly taught. He also argues strongly against war as counterproductive in a way that seemed naive and simplistic. As a conservative and a Lutheran, I have a much lower opinion of human nature. 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. I do recommend this book, but it was a little disappointing for me.
April 25, 2017
Lewis's Vision for Change" is outstanding. The insight portrayed, and depiction that, "education is the most important tool to institute this change" was amplified during Lewis's marches with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, as well as Lewis ministry.
As Lewis represented the U.S. Minorities in the Congress, he worked on the premise that monies spent om defense would benefit more by improve infra-structure, homelessness, education, job opportunities, etc making America better from the inside out. Looking at the state of affairs today how could we disagree?
Every school, university, college, should use this autobiography as suggested reading. The insights of this reading is just what the mind needs. It delves even deeper into our understanding of God's out look on "mans inhumanity towards man".
The further I read the more enlightened I became. It has also directed my curiosity to read more of Lewis's work. I'm glad, and as an activist in human rights I have gain a stronger "stay to it" belief I did not have before.
As Lewis represented the U.S. Minorities in the Congress, he worked on the premise that monies spent om defense would benefit more by improve infra-structure, homelessness, education, job opportunities, etc making America better from the inside out. Looking at the state of affairs today how could we disagree?
Every school, university, college, should use this autobiography as suggested reading. The insights of this reading is just what the mind needs. It delves even deeper into our understanding of God's out look on "mans inhumanity towards man".
The further I read the more enlightened I became. It has also directed my curiosity to read more of Lewis's work. I'm glad, and as an activist in human rights I have gain a stronger "stay to it" belief I did not have before.
August 26, 2013
The book was meant to be inspiring, and it very much is inspiring. Reading this on the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington was fitting. So many gave so much that seems to have been forgotten. We need reminded. 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. Not many know of Highlander, or of their contribution to the Civil Rights Movement. So radical was Highlander's thought, it was placed under FBI surveillance. I was proud to see the recognition given to the school, and prouder to see it stated that Mrs. Parks was not someone who just sat down because she was tired, but was a committed civil rights activist who put her faith in the tools she learned at Highlander and chose to take the stand that was needed.
February 6, 2017
I deliberately took my time reading this important memoir. Each chapter/essay dealt with a theme of peaceful resistance via a particular concept: love, peace, unity, etc. And coming as it does from a civil rights hero like John Lewis, this is important information for our own time.
We are living in a time when peaceful resistance is the only way to stand up against the tyranny that has come to live in the Executive Office; Lewis has a number of great recommendations from which we can all benefit.
We are living in a time when peaceful resistance is the only way to stand up against the tyranny that has come to live in the Executive Office; Lewis has a number of great recommendations from which we can all benefit.
March 10, 2017
similar to the Dalai Lama, here is a man I would be interested in just being in his presence as he goes about daily activities and meetings, just to witness interactions with others. 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. I can't imagine that you wouldn't get a sense of that presence and quiet charisma, just being around them.
September 29, 2018
This book is a must read. It’s not a primer for non-violent change but rather a pathway to change. It chronicles Lewis’ activities in the civil rights movement but as much is a poetic proponent for non-violent change activity. Rooted in the teachings of Ghandi, Kennedy, King, Mandela and other champions of non-violent activism, this book reads like a beautiful melody. I so highly recommend this book.
May 15, 2013
Love in action. The triumph of truth. The secrets of non-violence to overcome the illusions of superiority and false righteousness. A must read for those in the struggle today for equality and fairness. 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. You will only be richer spiritually for having read it.
August 24, 2016
I absolutely loved this book for what is has to say about bringing truth and peace to America, and the world. 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. We need to live the truth...and we need to set the right example. It takes time but it can be done. A very uplifting book.
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