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Learning Humility: A Year of Searching for a Vanishing Virtue
In a society where raging narcissism dominates the moral landscape, the virtue of humility is often dismissed as irrelevant. Not only is humility vanishing from contemporary culture, but we are also witnessing how destructive a lack of humility has become among our churches and ministry leaders. And yet, Richard Foster, the founder of Renovaré, insists that humility is central to the journey toward character formation and spiritual transformation. For this reason he decided to spend a year studying the virtue of humility.
Using the Lakota calendar as a framework, Foster provides us with a look into the insights he gathered from sources ranging from Native American culture to Julian of Norwich to Scripture to personal friends. By engaging with both the spiritual classics and Foster's own experiences, Learning Humility provides profound insight into what humility can look like in our current cultural climate.
Join Richard Foster on the journey toward a life of humility, which he says leads us into "freedom, joy, and holy hilarity."
Using the Lakota calendar as a framework, Foster provides us with a look into the insights he gathered from sources ranging from Native American culture to Julian of Norwich to Scripture to personal friends. By engaging with both the spiritual classics and Foster's own experiences, Learning Humility provides profound insight into what humility can look like in our current cultural climate.
Join Richard Foster on the journey toward a life of humility, which he says leads us into "freedom, joy, and holy hilarity."
184 pages, Hardcover
Published December 6, 2022
93 people are currently reading
2838 people want to read
About the author
Richard J. Foster
93 books524 followersRichard J. Foster is the author of several bestselling books, including Celebration of Discipline, Streams of Living Water, and Prayer, which was Christianity Today's Book of the Year and the winner of the Gold Medallion Award from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. He is the founder of Renovaré, an intrachurch movement committed to the renewal of the Church in all her multifaceted expressions, and the editor of The Renovaré Spiritual Formation Bible.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
January 10, 2023
Summary: A journal of a year-long journey of learning humility including notes from readings, reflections, prayers, organized around the Lakota calendar.
Richard J. Foster was pondering at the turn of a year whether to set any resolutions for the new year. He sensed he was hearing from God the words “learn humility.”
Over the next year, he read a number of spiritual writers to glean their insights into humility and recorded his insights, quotes, and personal experiences in a journal organized according to the Lakota calendar. He thought a calendar rooted in nature and one from a Native American heritage similar to his own might be helpful.
The Lakota influence extended beyond the thirteen colorfully named moons of the Lakota calendar (for example “The Moon When Trees Crack from the Cold”). Each moon after the first opens with one of twelve Lakota virtues. During the course of the year, Foster also reads a number of works on Lakota history and culture. In addition to the connection of these virtues to humility, Foster’s study is a journey in humility in a couple other ways. He learns from Lakota spirituality while recognizing the ways it diverges from Christianity. One example is the vision quest involving solitude, nature, and fasting, practices also found in Christian tradition. He also grieves the broken promises and atrocities committed by the United States against the Lakota, culminating in the massacre at Wounded Knee. Perhaps this calls us into corporate humility, repenting our corporate sins and broken promises toward the First Nations who occupied the land before us.
He also shares insights from writers throughout church history from Augustine to Benedict to C. S. Lewis. He records personal experiences from momentary anger to impatience while on hold for a phone call to an insight into humility from a walk with his son. Often a subheading will consist of one or a few paragraphs with a few subheadings for each week. Rich fare but not heavy going. In many instances, his reflections end in questions or matters on which Foster wants to reflect further–not neatly packaged conclusions.
Early on, Foster reflects on the starting place in our journey being meditation on the life of Jesus, our supreme example of humility. He writes a simple prayer to which he recurs though the year:
Loving Lord Jesus, I humbly ask that you would...
Purify my heart,
Renew my mind,
Sanctify my imagination,
Enlarge my soul.
Amen
At various points he focuses on the various ways we learn humility, often in the everyday life of our homes, and often in the instances that expose our propensities to pride, vanity, self-importance, and selfishness, as we recognize the opportunities to renounce these and to prefer others interests to our own. Foster asserts that progress in humility comes from God. The most we can do is orient our will toward God. God often, then, takes us into situations in which we may choose the way of humility.
Toward the end, he proposes several questions I found challenging that help us discern our own progress in humility:
Am I genuinely happy when someone else succeeds?
Do I have less need to talk about my own accomplishments?
Is the inner urge to control or manage others growing less and less in me?
Can I genuinely enjoy a conversation without any need or even any desire to dominate what is being said? (p. 163)
The reflections in this work come out of a year of journaling (and a longer writing process). This is worth a slow reading, reflecting on the quotes and observations and questions Foster raises. Instead of a treatise on humility offering a merely academic understanding, Foster invites us to walk with him and learn humility with him as a fellow traveler. He points us less to answers and more to the one who will teach us and wants us to become more like him. Foster believes God is eager to grow the grace of humility in each one of us. The question is, are we willing to learn? Settling into this book is a good place to begin.
____________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher.
Richard J. Foster was pondering at the turn of a year whether to set any resolutions for the new year. He sensed he was hearing from God the words “learn humility.”
Over the next year, he read a number of spiritual writers to glean their insights into humility and recorded his insights, quotes, and personal experiences in a journal organized according to the Lakota calendar. He thought a calendar rooted in nature and one from a Native American heritage similar to his own might be helpful.
The Lakota influence extended beyond the thirteen colorfully named moons of the Lakota calendar (for example “The Moon When Trees Crack from the Cold”). Each moon after the first opens with one of twelve Lakota virtues. During the course of the year, Foster also reads a number of works on Lakota history and culture. In addition to the connection of these virtues to humility, Foster’s study is a journey in humility in a couple other ways. He learns from Lakota spirituality while recognizing the ways it diverges from Christianity. One example is the vision quest involving solitude, nature, and fasting, practices also found in Christian tradition. He also grieves the broken promises and atrocities committed by the United States against the Lakota, culminating in the massacre at Wounded Knee. Perhaps this calls us into corporate humility, repenting our corporate sins and broken promises toward the First Nations who occupied the land before us.
He also shares insights from writers throughout church history from Augustine to Benedict to C. S. Lewis. He records personal experiences from momentary anger to impatience while on hold for a phone call to an insight into humility from a walk with his son. Often a subheading will consist of one or a few paragraphs with a few subheadings for each week. Rich fare but not heavy going. In many instances, his reflections end in questions or matters on which Foster wants to reflect further–not neatly packaged conclusions.
Early on, Foster reflects on the starting place in our journey being meditation on the life of Jesus, our supreme example of humility. He writes a simple prayer to which he recurs though the year:
Loving Lord Jesus, I humbly ask that you would...
Purify my heart,
Renew my mind,
Sanctify my imagination,
Enlarge my soul.
Amen
At various points he focuses on the various ways we learn humility, often in the everyday life of our homes, and often in the instances that expose our propensities to pride, vanity, self-importance, and selfishness, as we recognize the opportunities to renounce these and to prefer others interests to our own. Foster asserts that progress in humility comes from God. The most we can do is orient our will toward God. God often, then, takes us into situations in which we may choose the way of humility.
Toward the end, he proposes several questions I found challenging that help us discern our own progress in humility:
Am I genuinely happy when someone else succeeds?
Do I have less need to talk about my own accomplishments?
Is the inner urge to control or manage others growing less and less in me?
Can I genuinely enjoy a conversation without any need or even any desire to dominate what is being said? (p. 163)
The reflections in this work come out of a year of journaling (and a longer writing process). This is worth a slow reading, reflecting on the quotes and observations and questions Foster raises. Instead of a treatise on humility offering a merely academic understanding, Foster invites us to walk with him and learn humility with him as a fellow traveler. He points us less to answers and more to the one who will teach us and wants us to become more like him. Foster believes God is eager to grow the grace of humility in each one of us. The question is, are we willing to learn? Settling into this book is a good place to begin.
____________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher.
July 18, 2025
This book felt personable and vulnerable, inviting the reader into the journey.
October 28, 2022
A friend described this as "fireside chats with Richard". I felt that as I slowly made my way through the book. I loved hearing his ponderings about culture, faith, and humility. He is modeling well how to slow down and thoughtfully engage with one topic while living day to day. Richard is a wise man who I want to learn from.
Read
February 26, 2023I don't think that I've read any of Richard Foster's books since *The Celebration of Discipline*, and that was probably 15 years ago. It is such a gift to see someone aging with grace, mourning but coming to terms with new limitations and having an openness to learning new, hard things. Foster reads the audiobook, too. Special.
January 29, 2023
Foster always has good insight. I could see reading this one in smaller sessions. Perhaps even coinciding with lent or advent. I appreciated his consideration of history and place in a book on humility. Very fitting.
December 12, 2022
You might have noticed that I titled this blog post “overview” instead of “review.” That’s because this book is rich with insight and I am unwilling to rush through it. I can’t actually give you a review of a book that I haven’t read, so I’ll give you my preliminary thoughts based on both the book and a one hour seminar that Richard Foster gave about the book.
I picked this up and started in about a month ago. I was initially a bit confused by the format of the book. What you are reading are journal entries where the author is processing his thoughts. It’s not quite as straightforward as an author arranging his thoughts for an audience of readers. There is, however, a beauty to joining Foster in the curiosity of his exploration of humility.
In the very beginning of the book he refers to a classic work of spiritual literature and it’s thoughts on humility. I ended up setting this book down to dig that book out and re-familiarize myself with that work. Then I went on to engage with Richard’s pondering on the connections. Again, this is why I’m not giving you a review. I’m still only partway along the journey of exploration. Could you read the book straight through? Of course. But I found myself very resistant to the idea.
I think that is because the book is an exploration. You aren’t meant to take away a three point sermon on why humility is important or general knowledge on how to practice it. You are meant to learn, to live, humility.
I’m enjoying the journey. I’m curious as to where it will take me. A couple of year’s ago Jess Ray’s song “Humble Heart” became the theme of my year. One of the lines in the song is “Oh, how I have so much to learn.” I’m sure that will be true for the whole of my life, but I’m thankful for a guide on the journey.
I received this book for review. All opinions are my own.
I picked this up and started in about a month ago. I was initially a bit confused by the format of the book. What you are reading are journal entries where the author is processing his thoughts. It’s not quite as straightforward as an author arranging his thoughts for an audience of readers. There is, however, a beauty to joining Foster in the curiosity of his exploration of humility.
In the very beginning of the book he refers to a classic work of spiritual literature and it’s thoughts on humility. I ended up setting this book down to dig that book out and re-familiarize myself with that work. Then I went on to engage with Richard’s pondering on the connections. Again, this is why I’m not giving you a review. I’m still only partway along the journey of exploration. Could you read the book straight through? Of course. But I found myself very resistant to the idea.
I think that is because the book is an exploration. You aren’t meant to take away a three point sermon on why humility is important or general knowledge on how to practice it. You are meant to learn, to live, humility.
I’m enjoying the journey. I’m curious as to where it will take me. A couple of year’s ago Jess Ray’s song “Humble Heart” became the theme of my year. One of the lines in the song is “Oh, how I have so much to learn.” I’m sure that will be true for the whole of my life, but I’m thankful for a guide on the journey.
I received this book for review. All opinions are my own.
July 6, 2025
It wasn’t what I expected, but it was still valuable. Every time I opened it, Foster helped me ponder “the chief of all virtues.” Yet, humility may be the most subversive of all virtues.
I liked this from his summarizing thoughts - “I can be confident that humility is a virtue worthy of my best efforts.” I concur.
I liked this from his summarizing thoughts - “I can be confident that humility is a virtue worthy of my best efforts.” I concur.
January 29, 2023
For readers who have already met Richard Foster through Celebration of Discipline (now a classic), Learning Humility will be a welcome reintroduction to Foster’s gentle leadership in spiritual formation. Those who are meeting him for the first time will be surprised to discover this nuanced but compelling invitation to grow in Christ.
The book has a lighthearted feel, for readers are looking over the author’s shoulder as he makes entries in his bright red journal. I found myself nodding in agreement that, yes, humility is countercultural in 2023. Yes, it’s hard–but SO worth the learning process.
And it’s a learning process that cannot bypass the work of the Holy Spirit. I got the feeling that Richard Foster was conducting an experiment, observing and recording his own heartbeat as he drank his coffee, tended his fire, and cooperated with God in God’s work of grace.
My practice of paying attention to the footnotes was richly rewarded, for Foster’s reading has run deep and wide throughout his long life. Thinkers from Aristotle to C.S. Lewis have weighed in on humility and Foster’s “Year of Searching for [the] Vanishing Virtue” has done much of our research for us. (I was challenged to add The Cloud of Unknowing to my reading list.)
An unexpected framing of the book around the thirteen moons of the Lakota calendar with their evocative descriptions linked humility with nature’s beauty. This should be no surprise, given that humble means “grounded” or “from the earth”–it’s just that we need extra help these days in finding our way there.
Rich parallels deepened my understanding of humility as Foster’s research challenged him to hold humility up beside wisdom, service, repentance, and strength and to create space for wondering about the connection. Like him, “I will think on it.” And I will let the discipline of thinking things over in the presence of God bring about the much-needed change.
Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review, which is, of course, offered freely and with honesty.
The book has a lighthearted feel, for readers are looking over the author’s shoulder as he makes entries in his bright red journal. I found myself nodding in agreement that, yes, humility is countercultural in 2023. Yes, it’s hard–but SO worth the learning process.
And it’s a learning process that cannot bypass the work of the Holy Spirit. I got the feeling that Richard Foster was conducting an experiment, observing and recording his own heartbeat as he drank his coffee, tended his fire, and cooperated with God in God’s work of grace.
My practice of paying attention to the footnotes was richly rewarded, for Foster’s reading has run deep and wide throughout his long life. Thinkers from Aristotle to C.S. Lewis have weighed in on humility and Foster’s “Year of Searching for [the] Vanishing Virtue” has done much of our research for us. (I was challenged to add The Cloud of Unknowing to my reading list.)
An unexpected framing of the book around the thirteen moons of the Lakota calendar with their evocative descriptions linked humility with nature’s beauty. This should be no surprise, given that humble means “grounded” or “from the earth”–it’s just that we need extra help these days in finding our way there.
Rich parallels deepened my understanding of humility as Foster’s research challenged him to hold humility up beside wisdom, service, repentance, and strength and to create space for wondering about the connection. Like him, “I will think on it.” And I will let the discipline of thinking things over in the presence of God bring about the much-needed change.
Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review, which is, of course, offered freely and with honesty.
March 10, 2023
I think if you go into this book knowing it is an autobiographical account of some(?) of the things in Foster's journal, you will probably like it more. It is not a bad book.
It is NOT a prescriptive book about how to learn humility.
It is NOT a cohesive narrative that would allow a reader to observe any progress that Foster made in humility over the year.
I think what was most disappointing for me was when Foster would discuss something for two or three paragraphs and then pose a question. He would then say he needed to think about it more. The next entry would be on something completely different. Did he think about it? What were his thoughts? I have no idea. Am I supposed to think about those issues? Or are they just ones for the author?
Similarly, Foster makes much of the history of the Lakota people over the last few hundred years. He seems not to have been spurred to action on the matter, however. Is he advocating for us to do anything? Or just to feel conflicted?
I truly found it strange that he would omit from his stories of the Lakota the story of Mt. Rushmore. I have felt extremely conflicted about Mt. Rushmore for some time. Not only was this a sacred mountain taken from another people. But the carving was designed and implemented by a known racist. And the creator dismissed the idea that any native representation should be present on the monument. Nor did he talk about the conflict of the native tribes about the Crazy Horse monument.
I am just not sure what to make of this book. It was fine, but I am unlikely to read it again or recommend it to others.
It is NOT a prescriptive book about how to learn humility.
It is NOT a cohesive narrative that would allow a reader to observe any progress that Foster made in humility over the year.
I think what was most disappointing for me was when Foster would discuss something for two or three paragraphs and then pose a question. He would then say he needed to think about it more. The next entry would be on something completely different. Did he think about it? What were his thoughts? I have no idea. Am I supposed to think about those issues? Or are they just ones for the author?
Similarly, Foster makes much of the history of the Lakota people over the last few hundred years. He seems not to have been spurred to action on the matter, however. Is he advocating for us to do anything? Or just to feel conflicted?
I truly found it strange that he would omit from his stories of the Lakota the story of Mt. Rushmore. I have felt extremely conflicted about Mt. Rushmore for some time. Not only was this a sacred mountain taken from another people. But the carving was designed and implemented by a known racist. And the creator dismissed the idea that any native representation should be present on the monument. Nor did he talk about the conflict of the native tribes about the Crazy Horse monument.
I am just not sure what to make of this book. It was fine, but I am unlikely to read it again or recommend it to others.
February 19, 2023
Just when it seemed we may never get another book from Foster, he releases Learning Humility (which he admits is likely his last). This is a less structured, more personal work from him. Feeling that God was prompting him to learn humility, he journals a whole year, reflecting on this highest Christian virtue, using the Lakota calendar, virtues, and history as a backdrop for doing so. If you’ve read any Foster, he likely introduced you to a number of Christian authors spanning several traditions, and while he does so again here, it was refreshing to be introduced to a whole other spiritual tradition by him: that of the Lakotas.
Observing Foster’s slow way of life full of extended meditations by fires or on hikes was a blessing. One phrase repeats again & again from him: “I’ll have to stay with this” (thought, book, idea, etc)
Observing Foster’s slow way of life full of extended meditations by fires or on hikes was a blessing. One phrase repeats again & again from him: “I’ll have to stay with this” (thought, book, idea, etc)
March 27, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really loved reading this book slowly—I felt like I was hiking with Foster and getting his inner thoughts on humility. I love the journal format that accompanied musings and incomplete thoughts.
The Lakota tribe reflections also stirred something in me that is incomplete so Foster’s method worked its way into my own thinking as I contemplate humility…
I read this book in community with Renovare bookclub and the interviews and reflections on chapters and sections added a richness that made me think of humility throughout my day in the way I saw people lead, in my own responses and occasionally intentionally choosing the obscure or hidden thing to see how I interacted with this virtue.
Recommend.
I really loved reading this book slowly—I felt like I was hiking with Foster and getting his inner thoughts on humility. I love the journal format that accompanied musings and incomplete thoughts.
The Lakota tribe reflections also stirred something in me that is incomplete so Foster’s method worked its way into my own thinking as I contemplate humility…
I read this book in community with Renovare bookclub and the interviews and reflections on chapters and sections added a richness that made me think of humility throughout my day in the way I saw people lead, in my own responses and occasionally intentionally choosing the obscure or hidden thing to see how I interacted with this virtue.
Recommend.
March 4, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. In a personal journal style, Foster walks us through the Lakota virtues following the Lakota calendar. The stories, though sometimes stream of consciousness, are sobering and thought provoking. Foster combines the broad Christian contemplative tradition on humility with stories from native and indigenous people. The U.S. treatment of the Lakota stirs one to sadness and anger. Foster’s work prompts one to act justly and long for humility.
March 28, 2023
Reading this felt like taking a walk with Richard Foster. This was the first book by him I've read and it did make me want to read some of his others which I've heard are more substantive (from my Renovaré small group mates).
I enjoyed this and found it easy to read. It was very though-provoking and provided good reflection during what frequently feels like a very humbling season of life.
Overall, it made me think, but didn't leave me with much to hold on to.
I enjoyed this and found it easy to read. It was very though-provoking and provided good reflection during what frequently feels like a very humbling season of life.
Overall, it made me think, but didn't leave me with much to hold on to.
October 2, 2022
I was so eager to read this book but found the information so scattered. One moment he is mentioning the Lakota calendar, then an obscure book called Cloud of Unknowing, then Lenten season, The Way, Greek philosophers...Readers' minds will be all over the place with no context to what is being tackled. The stream of consciousness writing style feels lazy here. It's akin to reading someone's journal that might have profound moments where only the writer knows what is going on. Also, other virtues are taken up (I thought this book was about the virtue of humility?)
Hard pass.
Thanks to the publisher for the early access.
Hard pass.
Thanks to the publisher for the early access.
March 21, 2024
“Learning Humility: A year of searching for a vanishing virtue” by Richard J. Foster
BIBLIOGRAPHIC DETAILS:
-Print: December 6, 2022; IVP; 192 Pages; 978- 1514002124 (Info from Amazon.com)
-Digital: December 6, 2022; IVP; 180 Pages (Info from Amazon.com)
-*Audio: COPYRIGHT: December 6, 2022; PUBLISHER: christianaudio.com.; DURATION: 6 hours and 57 minutes (Audio info. Amazon.com)
-Feature Film or tv: No
SERIES: N/A
SUMMARY/ EVALUATION:
-SELECTED: A discussion with a friend on Native Americans got me started on a Native American kick. This resulted from a "Libby" search on the subject.
-ABOUT: Using a Lakota calendar to mark the months, the author discusses the 12 Lakota virtues, giving each, a month of consideration; always in mind of the first and primary virtue, humility. We are offered Lakota values gently steeped in Christianity.
-OVERALL: Well versed in Christian theology and and Lakota culture, Foster provides a contemplative and inspiring book here that is gentle on the Spirit (well, except for the wounded knee history).
AUTHOR:
Richard J. Foster (excerpt from Wikipedia)
“Richard James Foster (born 1942) is a Christian theologian and author in the Quaker tradition. His writings speak to a broad Christian audience. Born in 1942 in New Mexico, Foster spent the majority of his childhood growing up in Southern California. Foster has been a professor at Friends University and pastor of Evangelical Friends churches. Foster resides in Denver, Colorado. He earned his undergraduate degree at George Fox University in Oregon and his Doctor of Pastoral Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, and received an honorary doctorate from Houghton College.[1]”
NARRATOR:
Richard J. Foster (continued excerpt from Wikipedia)
“He also published Freedom of Simplicity in 1981, which further explores the discipline of simple, intentional living.[5] Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home (1992, ISBN 0-06-062846-4), which explores 21 different types of Christian prayer, edited Devotional Classics (1993, ISBN 0-06-066966-7), a devotional guide featuring Christian wisdom through the ages, and Streams of Living Water (2001, ISBN 0-06-062822-7), which examines the place of the different spiritual traditions - Contemplative: The Prayer-Filled Life; Holiness: The Virtuous Life ; Charismatic: The Spirit-Empowered Life; Social Justice: The Compassionate Life; Evangelical: The Word-Centered Life; and Incarnational: The Sacramental Life - in Christianity. Sanctuary of the Soul: Journey Into Meditative Prayer.”
*Nice narration. Richard comes across as a kindly and philosophical minister.
GENRE:
Nonfiction; Self-improvement; Religion; Spirituality; Faith; Christianity; Theology
SUBJECTS: (Not Comprehensive)
Humility (Unsiiciyapi); Perseverance (Wowacintanka); Respect (Wawoohola); Honor (Wayunonihan); Love (Cantognake); Sacrifice (Icicupi); Truth (Wowicake); Compassion (Waunsilapi); Bravery (Woohitike); Fortitude (Cantewasake); Generosity (Canteyuke); Wisdom (Woksape); Lakota history; Christianity
TIME FRAME:
N/A
DEDICATION:
"TO CAROLYNN, MY HEART,
We met for the first time fifty-six years ago and in that first
Meeting you stole my heart. I have never regretted the theft.
Over the many years we have been through thick and thin, ups
And downs. Sometimes we were taken where we did not want
To go . . . especially so through The Cancer Years.
But we faced it all, both the good and the bad, together.
I dedicated my first book, Celebration of Discipline, to you. Now,
for this book (which might be my last), I also dedicate it to you.
I love you, dear Carolynn . . . more than words can ever tell.
Yours for eternity,
__Richard”
EXCERPT (From “A Beginning Word”)
“Tonight I have been meditating on New Year’s resolutions, wondering if I need to undertake any for this next year. Actually, I dislike these attempts at self-improvement. For the most part they are simply humanly initiated efforts that usually last about two and a half weeks. Still, while I was holding the idea before myself, I sensed a nudge . . . perhaps a divine nudge. It came to me in two words: “learn humility.”
Hmm. I wonder, Should I give this next year to see what I can learn about humility by study and by experience? Both the Bible and the devotional masters give high priority to this virtue.
Yet it is a virtue that is not thought much of today.
Perhaps I could follow the calendar year and then maybe I can keep a journal record of my observations and musings. I’m not particularly good at journal writing . . . I probably have a dozen hal-written journals sitting over there on my bookshelves. Still, I’d like to see how thing develop here.
NEW YEARS DAY – THE LAKOTA CALENDAR
Thoughts about writing on the subject of humility keep pressing in on me. If I am going to use the calendar year as the organizing principle for this project, I think I would prefer to use one of the Native American calendars rather than using the traditional names for the months . . . January, February, etc. Their intentional rootedness in the natural world is a welcome departure from the scattered, patchwork nature of today’s social rhythms.”
RATING:
5 stars
STARTED READING – FINISHED READING
2/29/2021 to 3/20/2024
BIBLIOGRAPHIC DETAILS:
-Print: December 6, 2022; IVP; 192 Pages; 978- 1514002124 (Info from Amazon.com)
-Digital: December 6, 2022; IVP; 180 Pages (Info from Amazon.com)
-*Audio: COPYRIGHT: December 6, 2022; PUBLISHER: christianaudio.com.; DURATION: 6 hours and 57 minutes (Audio info. Amazon.com)
-Feature Film or tv: No
SERIES: N/A
SUMMARY/ EVALUATION:
-SELECTED: A discussion with a friend on Native Americans got me started on a Native American kick. This resulted from a "Libby" search on the subject.
-ABOUT: Using a Lakota calendar to mark the months, the author discusses the 12 Lakota virtues, giving each, a month of consideration; always in mind of the first and primary virtue, humility. We are offered Lakota values gently steeped in Christianity.
-OVERALL: Well versed in Christian theology and and Lakota culture, Foster provides a contemplative and inspiring book here that is gentle on the Spirit (well, except for the wounded knee history).
AUTHOR:
Richard J. Foster (excerpt from Wikipedia)
“Richard James Foster (born 1942) is a Christian theologian and author in the Quaker tradition. His writings speak to a broad Christian audience. Born in 1942 in New Mexico, Foster spent the majority of his childhood growing up in Southern California. Foster has been a professor at Friends University and pastor of Evangelical Friends churches. Foster resides in Denver, Colorado. He earned his undergraduate degree at George Fox University in Oregon and his Doctor of Pastoral Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, and received an honorary doctorate from Houghton College.[1]”
NARRATOR:
Richard J. Foster (continued excerpt from Wikipedia)
“He also published Freedom of Simplicity in 1981, which further explores the discipline of simple, intentional living.[5] Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home (1992, ISBN 0-06-062846-4), which explores 21 different types of Christian prayer, edited Devotional Classics (1993, ISBN 0-06-066966-7), a devotional guide featuring Christian wisdom through the ages, and Streams of Living Water (2001, ISBN 0-06-062822-7), which examines the place of the different spiritual traditions - Contemplative: The Prayer-Filled Life; Holiness: The Virtuous Life ; Charismatic: The Spirit-Empowered Life; Social Justice: The Compassionate Life; Evangelical: The Word-Centered Life; and Incarnational: The Sacramental Life - in Christianity. Sanctuary of the Soul: Journey Into Meditative Prayer.”
*Nice narration. Richard comes across as a kindly and philosophical minister.
GENRE:
Nonfiction; Self-improvement; Religion; Spirituality; Faith; Christianity; Theology
SUBJECTS: (Not Comprehensive)
Humility (Unsiiciyapi); Perseverance (Wowacintanka); Respect (Wawoohola); Honor (Wayunonihan); Love (Cantognake); Sacrifice (Icicupi); Truth (Wowicake); Compassion (Waunsilapi); Bravery (Woohitike); Fortitude (Cantewasake); Generosity (Canteyuke); Wisdom (Woksape); Lakota history; Christianity
TIME FRAME:
N/A
DEDICATION:
"TO CAROLYNN, MY HEART,
We met for the first time fifty-six years ago and in that first
Meeting you stole my heart. I have never regretted the theft.
Over the many years we have been through thick and thin, ups
And downs. Sometimes we were taken where we did not want
To go . . . especially so through The Cancer Years.
But we faced it all, both the good and the bad, together.
I dedicated my first book, Celebration of Discipline, to you. Now,
for this book (which might be my last), I also dedicate it to you.
I love you, dear Carolynn . . . more than words can ever tell.
Yours for eternity,
__Richard”
EXCERPT (From “A Beginning Word”)
“Tonight I have been meditating on New Year’s resolutions, wondering if I need to undertake any for this next year. Actually, I dislike these attempts at self-improvement. For the most part they are simply humanly initiated efforts that usually last about two and a half weeks. Still, while I was holding the idea before myself, I sensed a nudge . . . perhaps a divine nudge. It came to me in two words: “learn humility.”
Hmm. I wonder, Should I give this next year to see what I can learn about humility by study and by experience? Both the Bible and the devotional masters give high priority to this virtue.
Yet it is a virtue that is not thought much of today.
Perhaps I could follow the calendar year and then maybe I can keep a journal record of my observations and musings. I’m not particularly good at journal writing . . . I probably have a dozen hal-written journals sitting over there on my bookshelves. Still, I’d like to see how thing develop here.
NEW YEARS DAY – THE LAKOTA CALENDAR
Thoughts about writing on the subject of humility keep pressing in on me. If I am going to use the calendar year as the organizing principle for this project, I think I would prefer to use one of the Native American calendars rather than using the traditional names for the months . . . January, February, etc. Their intentional rootedness in the natural world is a welcome departure from the scattered, patchwork nature of today’s social rhythms.”
RATING:
5 stars
STARTED READING – FINISHED READING
2/29/2021 to 3/20/2024
March 14, 2023
Summary: Based on journal entries, Richard Foster explores the concept of humility in the Christian life.
Yesterday I recommended Learning Humility to someone that I meet with for spiritual direction. He was familiar with Richard Foster and his other books, but the first comment to my talking about Learning Humility as a new book was that he didn't know that Richard Foster was still alive. He is still alive, and he and his wife live independently in rural Colorado. But Richard Foster is in his early 80s and has not published a new book in over a decade.
I have read most of Richard Foster's books, and Learning Humility is quite different. Generally, the other books are exploring spiritual formation concepts and are in a teaching mode. Learning Humility was very much an edited journal. Many sections ended with a variation of "I will have to think about that for a while."
I listened to this as an audiobook, and while I think that Foster narrated it well and that his voice really helped bring out the emotion and thought of the book, this is probably a book that either needs to be read a few times or it would be better to be read in print. Again, that isn't because the narration is bad (a different narrator would be worse) but because the prose is written in a way that invites the reader to sit with his words and go back and reread. Audiobooks just keep going. That is one reason I like them for some types of books. But other books, books that are more poetic in style or that are meant to be meditated on, need print.
Richard Foster discovered, around 20 years ago, that his paternal grandmother, who died before he was born, was Ojibwa. Since that time, he has been exploring Native American history and thought. To continue that exploration, he frames his journal using the Lakota calendar. This gives him 13 moons to explore the Lakota values corresponding to the calendar.
I think Foster handles this well. He is not claiming to be a member of a Native American tribe or that he has special insight into Native American culture. He is describing what he is learning and cites where he is learning it from. There is a fine line between postively honoring a culture that is not your own and humbly using the cross-cultural differences to inform your own culture and negatively appropriating another culture for your own purposes. I think he mostly stays on the right side of that line. Cross-cultural exploration is one of the best methods to help understand our culture. The way we understand the water we are swimming in is to grapple with other cultures and their similarities and differences.
Each chapter title is a rough translation of the Lakota names for the months. And each chapter summarizes his thoughts by the week on what he is learning about himself and the concept of humility. He allows himself to explore various authors and writings about humility in addition to a monthly Lakota cultural value. He pays attention to the seasons and what is happening in the world around him. Many thoughts are just a few lines, and some go on a page or two, but it is intentionally more disjointed than straight narrative teaching.
The point here is that he is not teaching; he is exploring ideas and his own values and ideas regarding his own spiritual formation. He may be in his early 80s and mostly retired. But he still is seeking to grow in his relationship with God.
I regularly listen to the two podcasts that Richard Foster's son Nathan hosts, the Renovaré podcast and the Friends in Formation podcast. Richard used to be on the Renovare podcast pretty regularly but has retired from that. But the slow, easy voice that Nathan has as he discusses books and ideas and spiritual formation with the guests has been learned from his father. It is unhurried. And the book Learning Humility is not racing to get anywhere in particular. It is unhurried as well.
Yesterday I recommended Learning Humility to someone that I meet with for spiritual direction. He was familiar with Richard Foster and his other books, but the first comment to my talking about Learning Humility as a new book was that he didn't know that Richard Foster was still alive. He is still alive, and he and his wife live independently in rural Colorado. But Richard Foster is in his early 80s and has not published a new book in over a decade.
I have read most of Richard Foster's books, and Learning Humility is quite different. Generally, the other books are exploring spiritual formation concepts and are in a teaching mode. Learning Humility was very much an edited journal. Many sections ended with a variation of "I will have to think about that for a while."
I listened to this as an audiobook, and while I think that Foster narrated it well and that his voice really helped bring out the emotion and thought of the book, this is probably a book that either needs to be read a few times or it would be better to be read in print. Again, that isn't because the narration is bad (a different narrator would be worse) but because the prose is written in a way that invites the reader to sit with his words and go back and reread. Audiobooks just keep going. That is one reason I like them for some types of books. But other books, books that are more poetic in style or that are meant to be meditated on, need print.
Richard Foster discovered, around 20 years ago, that his paternal grandmother, who died before he was born, was Ojibwa. Since that time, he has been exploring Native American history and thought. To continue that exploration, he frames his journal using the Lakota calendar. This gives him 13 moons to explore the Lakota values corresponding to the calendar.
I think Foster handles this well. He is not claiming to be a member of a Native American tribe or that he has special insight into Native American culture. He is describing what he is learning and cites where he is learning it from. There is a fine line between postively honoring a culture that is not your own and humbly using the cross-cultural differences to inform your own culture and negatively appropriating another culture for your own purposes. I think he mostly stays on the right side of that line. Cross-cultural exploration is one of the best methods to help understand our culture. The way we understand the water we are swimming in is to grapple with other cultures and their similarities and differences.
Each chapter title is a rough translation of the Lakota names for the months. And each chapter summarizes his thoughts by the week on what he is learning about himself and the concept of humility. He allows himself to explore various authors and writings about humility in addition to a monthly Lakota cultural value. He pays attention to the seasons and what is happening in the world around him. Many thoughts are just a few lines, and some go on a page or two, but it is intentionally more disjointed than straight narrative teaching.
The point here is that he is not teaching; he is exploring ideas and his own values and ideas regarding his own spiritual formation. He may be in his early 80s and mostly retired. But he still is seeking to grow in his relationship with God.
I regularly listen to the two podcasts that Richard Foster's son Nathan hosts, the Renovaré podcast and the Friends in Formation podcast. Richard used to be on the Renovare podcast pretty regularly but has retired from that. But the slow, easy voice that Nathan has as he discusses books and ideas and spiritual formation with the guests has been learned from his father. It is unhurried. And the book Learning Humility is not racing to get anywhere in particular. It is unhurried as well.
August 28, 2023
If anyone can make a book about humility interesting, Richard Foster can. Those familiar with his discourses on spiritual disciplines, prayer, spiritual formation, and classical Christian writings will find his latest offering similar but with an unexpected twist.
One may argue that devoting an entire book to humility is a step down from his previous spiritual works- even humbling you might say. But the topic and title are timely and telling, as we now see little humility in the public arena, both in secular and religious thought and behavior.
He considers what humility is, why we should be humble, shows us how to be humble, but devotes few words telling us to be humble. Rather, humility tends to happen when our hearts and minds are not focused on proving it.
Richard explains he decided to explore the topic of humility as he was considering New Year’s resolutions which he doesn’t do. He considered journalling about them, but he doesn’t do that either. Instead, he decided to study what the Bible and classical and modern Christian writers have said about humility and ponder what it means as he went about his daily life at the rural Colorado home he shares with his wife.
He decided to follow the calendar year, recording observations and musings. However, because it is “rooted in the natural world” he decided to use a Native American calendar, specifically the Lakota Moon calendar.
This is the part that might surprise you. Richard’s grandmother was Native American, of the Ojibwa (Chippewa) tribe and he has embraced this heritage, as I heard him mention the only time I ever listened to him speak in person. He had chosen to wear his hair long, pulled back into a ponytail to identify with his ancestry.
So, each chapter is named for one of the thirteen Lakota moons (13 months of 28 days). He also incorporates the twelve Lakota virtues- humility, perseverance, respect, honor, love, sacrifice, truth, compassion, bravery, fortitude, generosity, and wisdom giving thought to how they each complement humility.
Those who have read Foster’s other books, especially Celebration of Discipline, will find this one more personal, self-revealing, and introspective, yet still firmly grounded in scripture. If this is a first for you, I think you will want to read others by him that instruct and inspire us in the spiritual practices of prayer, meditation, service, and study.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.”
One may argue that devoting an entire book to humility is a step down from his previous spiritual works- even humbling you might say. But the topic and title are timely and telling, as we now see little humility in the public arena, both in secular and religious thought and behavior.
He considers what humility is, why we should be humble, shows us how to be humble, but devotes few words telling us to be humble. Rather, humility tends to happen when our hearts and minds are not focused on proving it.
Richard explains he decided to explore the topic of humility as he was considering New Year’s resolutions which he doesn’t do. He considered journalling about them, but he doesn’t do that either. Instead, he decided to study what the Bible and classical and modern Christian writers have said about humility and ponder what it means as he went about his daily life at the rural Colorado home he shares with his wife.
He decided to follow the calendar year, recording observations and musings. However, because it is “rooted in the natural world” he decided to use a Native American calendar, specifically the Lakota Moon calendar.
This is the part that might surprise you. Richard’s grandmother was Native American, of the Ojibwa (Chippewa) tribe and he has embraced this heritage, as I heard him mention the only time I ever listened to him speak in person. He had chosen to wear his hair long, pulled back into a ponytail to identify with his ancestry.
So, each chapter is named for one of the thirteen Lakota moons (13 months of 28 days). He also incorporates the twelve Lakota virtues- humility, perseverance, respect, honor, love, sacrifice, truth, compassion, bravery, fortitude, generosity, and wisdom giving thought to how they each complement humility.
Those who have read Foster’s other books, especially Celebration of Discipline, will find this one more personal, self-revealing, and introspective, yet still firmly grounded in scripture. If this is a first for you, I think you will want to read others by him that instruct and inspire us in the spiritual practices of prayer, meditation, service, and study.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.”
January 3, 2023
While not my favorite Richard Foster book, this one is definitely worth reading to peek into pages of Richard Foster's journal of a year spent studying and practicing the virtue of humility.
He begins with the “supreme touchstone” of Jesus, the ultimate example of humility. From there he ventures into classic Christian texts on humility. He also uses twelve virtues from the Lakota calendar to frame his year-long adventure into humility.
Early on, Foster discovers this:
“As I talk with people about the topic of humility and read about it and seek to practice it, I find a common misconception. It is this notion that if I am truly humble, I won’t know that I am humble. That is, self-knowledge of humility actually proves that we lack it.”
In other words, the myth is “if I think I’m humble, I’m not.” By believing it, Foster says we prevent ourselves from trying to become more humble.
But how can we overcome this roadblock to humility?
Foster says one simple way is this: pay attention to humility’s opposite—pride. Observe pride in ourselves and in others, not to judge it, but to sharpen our view of seeing how different pride looks compared to humility.
“Pride is always a distortion of who we are truly created to be. Humility is so very appealing when we see it in another person. Conversely, when we watch someone consumed with pride it feels unnatural, deformed, twisted.
“Humility is beautiful, whereas pride is ugly.”
Ultimately, Foster concludes, to find humility, don’t try to attain it directly. Follow the principle of indirection.
Participate with God in grace-filled work, developing “deep in our soul a right relationship with others and with God.”
Foster says he learned that humility made him more human, more genuinely accessible to other people.
This is a lesson of humility—and humanity—worth pursuing for all of us.
My thanks to NetGalley + InterVarsity Press for the review copy of this book.
He begins with the “supreme touchstone” of Jesus, the ultimate example of humility. From there he ventures into classic Christian texts on humility. He also uses twelve virtues from the Lakota calendar to frame his year-long adventure into humility.
Early on, Foster discovers this:
“As I talk with people about the topic of humility and read about it and seek to practice it, I find a common misconception. It is this notion that if I am truly humble, I won’t know that I am humble. That is, self-knowledge of humility actually proves that we lack it.”
In other words, the myth is “if I think I’m humble, I’m not.” By believing it, Foster says we prevent ourselves from trying to become more humble.
But how can we overcome this roadblock to humility?
Foster says one simple way is this: pay attention to humility’s opposite—pride. Observe pride in ourselves and in others, not to judge it, but to sharpen our view of seeing how different pride looks compared to humility.
“Pride is always a distortion of who we are truly created to be. Humility is so very appealing when we see it in another person. Conversely, when we watch someone consumed with pride it feels unnatural, deformed, twisted.
“Humility is beautiful, whereas pride is ugly.”
Ultimately, Foster concludes, to find humility, don’t try to attain it directly. Follow the principle of indirection.
Participate with God in grace-filled work, developing “deep in our soul a right relationship with others and with God.”
Foster says he learned that humility made him more human, more genuinely accessible to other people.
This is a lesson of humility—and humanity—worth pursuing for all of us.
My thanks to NetGalley + InterVarsity Press for the review copy of this book.
January 1, 2025
I wanted to read this because I respect the author and because I wanted to take time personally to reflect on humility for a time. I enjoyed listening to this book, read by the author. And I took my time with it, since the style is more of a pondering, reflective style. Interestingly, it is structured according to the Lakota calendar, and has seasonal references throughout. It’s similar to reading a journal over the course of a year in the author’s life.
Be prepared for observations from the writings of the saints, from the writings of the Lakota people, from his personal life, and from the natural world and changing seasons, as well as from the Scriptures. I enjoyed this variety and style because, for me, it is an integrated set of observations, and I enjoyed hearing his reflections, pondering them myself, and wandering with him through these various thoughts into a deeper understanding of and experience of the humility of God and of Christ. For me, it was an enriching read. I hope I am growing more and more in the grace of humility each year.
“Outwardly, we are pressed into the way of pride, pressed into the desire for accolades, but inwardly our life is “hidden with Christ in God“. To live outwardly with an abiding sense of this inward reality can help us express true humility in the midst of outward pressure to make a way for myself and run over others to get there.”
“I can be confident that humility is a virtue worthy of my best efforts. I can be confident that God is eager to grow the grace of humility in me. I can be confident that, as I work in cooperation with God, my soul will grow in the grace of humility. I can be confident that the community of faith will be enriched as I mature in the virtue of humility.”
Be prepared for observations from the writings of the saints, from the writings of the Lakota people, from his personal life, and from the natural world and changing seasons, as well as from the Scriptures. I enjoyed this variety and style because, for me, it is an integrated set of observations, and I enjoyed hearing his reflections, pondering them myself, and wandering with him through these various thoughts into a deeper understanding of and experience of the humility of God and of Christ. For me, it was an enriching read. I hope I am growing more and more in the grace of humility each year.
“Outwardly, we are pressed into the way of pride, pressed into the desire for accolades, but inwardly our life is “hidden with Christ in God“. To live outwardly with an abiding sense of this inward reality can help us express true humility in the midst of outward pressure to make a way for myself and run over others to get there.”
“I can be confident that humility is a virtue worthy of my best efforts. I can be confident that God is eager to grow the grace of humility in me. I can be confident that, as I work in cooperation with God, my soul will grow in the grace of humility. I can be confident that the community of faith will be enriched as I mature in the virtue of humility.”
March 11, 2023
I own this book; I learned from this book (but, ha, no, I'm not suddenly humble); and I'll keep re-reading this book; therefore, it is a five star book for me.
I don't have any problem with reading journal type of books -- some do. I've reached a point in my non-fiction reading where I am appreciating shorter books with shorter passages. I'm not trying to accumulate vast swaths of knowledge or be ready to make arguments or defend humility. I like an author who asks questions (of himself and the reader) and is willing to leave thoughts as provoking.
I like that this book is not prescriptive -- others had issues with that. See previous paragraph. Somehow a "Let's learn how to be humble in 10 steps" doesn't seem to fit the subject to me. Foster is exploring what it means to be humble.
Which means that he explores humility as written about through the ages and by various authors, and he explores the history of the Lakota people which humbles him as he realizes all they have gone through. Think of the Lakota portion as case studies.
I don't think the Lakota calendar nor the Lakota twelve virtues detracts from the topic of humility. Humility is a virtue which interacts with the other virtues. Also, when I think of underrepresented voices, I'd have to say the voices of people indigenous to North America have been less than other underrepresented voices currently. (Foster is genetically linked to the Anishinaabeg through his paternal grandmother. So, not exactly an underrepresented voice, but one who seeks to bring to light those who have been underrepresented and suffered much.
Would my mom read it? Maybe?
I don't have any problem with reading journal type of books -- some do. I've reached a point in my non-fiction reading where I am appreciating shorter books with shorter passages. I'm not trying to accumulate vast swaths of knowledge or be ready to make arguments or defend humility. I like an author who asks questions (of himself and the reader) and is willing to leave thoughts as provoking.
I like that this book is not prescriptive -- others had issues with that. See previous paragraph. Somehow a "Let's learn how to be humble in 10 steps" doesn't seem to fit the subject to me. Foster is exploring what it means to be humble.
Which means that he explores humility as written about through the ages and by various authors, and he explores the history of the Lakota people which humbles him as he realizes all they have gone through. Think of the Lakota portion as case studies.
I don't think the Lakota calendar nor the Lakota twelve virtues detracts from the topic of humility. Humility is a virtue which interacts with the other virtues. Also, when I think of underrepresented voices, I'd have to say the voices of people indigenous to North America have been less than other underrepresented voices currently. (Foster is genetically linked to the Anishinaabeg through his paternal grandmother. So, not exactly an underrepresented voice, but one who seeks to bring to light those who have been underrepresented and suffered much.
Would my mom read it? Maybe?
October 16, 2022
This was a fascinating first hand example of the slow process of learning new habits to become more like Christ. Foster (from Celebration of Discipline fame) sets out to study the virtue of humility with the intention of seeking to become more humble. He gives himself a year for this learning and this book reflects snippets of the journal he kept through the yearlong process.
He reads widely, naturally digs into Scripture and also studies the Lakota tribe who have their own 'manual' on various virtues including humility.
This process works for me and I enjoyed reading Foster's reflections and learnings. However, I recognise that this isn't perhaps for everyone and they may find it a little disjointed and meandering.
I think this book would work well if read within a group so that discussion could ensue about Foster's explorations. Alternatively, a workbook/study guide would work well to help the reader dig deeper themselves into the process of learning humility. I think some of the books transformative impact for the reader could be missed by simply reading through it page by page. We, the reader, kinda need to follow Foster's process and almost journal our own reflections on what we are in fact learning when reading Foster's exploration.
I feel I need to read it again and perhaps take the latter option for myself: a journal and study/meditate on the Biblical passages and other key texts that Foster cites.
I feel fortunate having received an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.
He reads widely, naturally digs into Scripture and also studies the Lakota tribe who have their own 'manual' on various virtues including humility.
This process works for me and I enjoyed reading Foster's reflections and learnings. However, I recognise that this isn't perhaps for everyone and they may find it a little disjointed and meandering.
I think this book would work well if read within a group so that discussion could ensue about Foster's explorations. Alternatively, a workbook/study guide would work well to help the reader dig deeper themselves into the process of learning humility. I think some of the books transformative impact for the reader could be missed by simply reading through it page by page. We, the reader, kinda need to follow Foster's process and almost journal our own reflections on what we are in fact learning when reading Foster's exploration.
I feel I need to read it again and perhaps take the latter option for myself: a journal and study/meditate on the Biblical passages and other key texts that Foster cites.
I feel fortunate having received an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.
March 24, 2023
In Learning Humility, Richard Foster takes the reader along his own personal, year-long journey of growing in humility through a journal format. True to form, Foster engages a wide variety of material: the Bible, writings from theologians from a variety of periods and denominations, and from the Lakota (Native American) people. Foster's charitable approach is refreshing as he acts as a trail guide, pointing out facets of humility he discovers along his journey. He approaches the world and the material he engages with curiosity, honesty, and as a practitioner. His shorter entries are very readable and engaging. His interest in the Lakota people and choice to follow their calendar in his pursuit makes the book a unique read.
At times, it was difficult for Foster's experiences to resonate with me. His context, an older man grappling with his aging body, living a slower-paced, outdoorsy life in Denver, Colorado, is far different than my situation. That proved to be a reoccurring hurdle that I had to leap, constantly thinking through how his personal revelations my translate to my setting.
The book perhaps best serves as an invitation for the reader to join Foster, but on their own personal journey of humility. I found that the excerpts from his many sources piqued my curiosity to circle back to his sources. I was more keenly aware of the ways God was working to produce humility in me as I read.
I'd recommend the book to those who want to embark on their own journey of humility and are open to engaging in a wide variety of sources.
At times, it was difficult for Foster's experiences to resonate with me. His context, an older man grappling with his aging body, living a slower-paced, outdoorsy life in Denver, Colorado, is far different than my situation. That proved to be a reoccurring hurdle that I had to leap, constantly thinking through how his personal revelations my translate to my setting.
The book perhaps best serves as an invitation for the reader to join Foster, but on their own personal journey of humility. I found that the excerpts from his many sources piqued my curiosity to circle back to his sources. I was more keenly aware of the ways God was working to produce humility in me as I read.
I'd recommend the book to those who want to embark on their own journey of humility and are open to engaging in a wide variety of sources.
January 15, 2023
Three important things people need to know about this book:
1. Richard J. Foster, the author of "Celebration of Discipline," wrote it. He's much older now, and wrote a bit differently (as explained in the book), but he's still the same writer and thinker he was then. You want this book.
2. Though his own ancestors were Anishinaabe, he's chosen to use Lakota history in this book for what it has to teach us about collective humility. I believe this was a good decision and a very humble, Quakerish way of making some important points. Other books discussed at length in the book include Quaker, other Protestant, and Catholic books and, of course, the Bible. It's a solid Christian book despite many pre-Christian references. Nature walks, trips into town, and visits with friends also illuminate Foster's reflections on humility as a virtue.
3. This is not a big, densely packed, formal book, as Foster's earlier books were. After age eighty some people stop writing altogether; Foster writes short, loosely linked, blog-like notes that a less successful author might be ordered to use as notes for a more polished book. The reward of a writer's life well lived is that Foster's fans will be satisfied by this personal journal. Foster still offers strong meat for mature Christian readers even if he now handles it in smaller chunks.
This is an excellent book, and worth the struggle I had to open the electronic copy. I recommend that everyone buy the printed edition.
1. Richard J. Foster, the author of "Celebration of Discipline," wrote it. He's much older now, and wrote a bit differently (as explained in the book), but he's still the same writer and thinker he was then. You want this book.
2. Though his own ancestors were Anishinaabe, he's chosen to use Lakota history in this book for what it has to teach us about collective humility. I believe this was a good decision and a very humble, Quakerish way of making some important points. Other books discussed at length in the book include Quaker, other Protestant, and Catholic books and, of course, the Bible. It's a solid Christian book despite many pre-Christian references. Nature walks, trips into town, and visits with friends also illuminate Foster's reflections on humility as a virtue.
3. This is not a big, densely packed, formal book, as Foster's earlier books were. After age eighty some people stop writing altogether; Foster writes short, loosely linked, blog-like notes that a less successful author might be ordered to use as notes for a more polished book. The reward of a writer's life well lived is that Foster's fans will be satisfied by this personal journal. Foster still offers strong meat for mature Christian readers even if he now handles it in smaller chunks.
This is an excellent book, and worth the struggle I had to open the electronic copy. I recommend that everyone buy the printed edition.
November 17, 2022
Humility is a tricky topic to write about. It could give the impression that the author is probably lacking in the virtue of humility if they claim to be some kind of expert in it. But Richard Foster, the founder of Renovaré and author of several well received, considered Christian classics, doesn’t make that mistake.
The title alone suggests Foster openly professes a degree of ignorance about the virtue of humility as he seeks to learn more about it over the course of a year, and put it into practice. His insightful, candid account is enhanced by descriptions of the Lakota Indians’ calendrical observances, with the addition of helpful anecdotes and illuminating quotes.
Because the book is based on intermittent journal jottings, each entry is relatively short and can be a bit choppy to read. Though it might be off putting for some, I think it works well here because such a method reflects the fits and starts of life itself as it unfolds, and the learning process Foster is engaging with as well.
Foster willingly admits his attempts to learn about humility and its practical application might be flawed yet he discovers numerous ways in which they are beneficial to his soul. The key takeaway from this brave attempt to walk in deeper humility is that it’s enhanced by the journey itself and what it reveals about ourselves, our lives, and our discipleship in Christ. 4.5*
The title alone suggests Foster openly professes a degree of ignorance about the virtue of humility as he seeks to learn more about it over the course of a year, and put it into practice. His insightful, candid account is enhanced by descriptions of the Lakota Indians’ calendrical observances, with the addition of helpful anecdotes and illuminating quotes.
Because the book is based on intermittent journal jottings, each entry is relatively short and can be a bit choppy to read. Though it might be off putting for some, I think it works well here because such a method reflects the fits and starts of life itself as it unfolds, and the learning process Foster is engaging with as well.
Foster willingly admits his attempts to learn about humility and its practical application might be flawed yet he discovers numerous ways in which they are beneficial to his soul. The key takeaway from this brave attempt to walk in deeper humility is that it’s enhanced by the journey itself and what it reveals about ourselves, our lives, and our discipleship in Christ. 4.5*
January 22, 2024
I picked this book up at our church’s bookstore. I have read a few books by Richard J Foster, “Celebrations of Discipline” being one of my favorites. Now that Richard is in his 80’s I knew this may be his last book (he admits it himself) and since finding humility and its graces has been a personal desire - so who better than RJF!
Because these are “notes and thoughts” by Richard in his New Year’s Eve new red journal - I attempted to read it that way also. In the end, I just wanted to read through so as to grasp its meaning better. (He does not follow a Gregorian calendar year but instead the Lakota Moon Calendar, divided into thirteen moons, and begins in spring, which again, I did not do!). I loved the references in Native American culture whose emphasis on Creation is a “insightful contrast to contemporary culture that presumes it can teach human society to achieve more and better.”
I wanted to move in humility’s direction - I have always believed that as a Christian (and follower of Jesus - who was in birth, life and death my teacher) that for me, humility is the most fundamental of virtues.
This book has been the beginning…I will (need to) read again and again. 😌
Because these are “notes and thoughts” by Richard in his New Year’s Eve new red journal - I attempted to read it that way also. In the end, I just wanted to read through so as to grasp its meaning better. (He does not follow a Gregorian calendar year but instead the Lakota Moon Calendar, divided into thirteen moons, and begins in spring, which again, I did not do!). I loved the references in Native American culture whose emphasis on Creation is a “insightful contrast to contemporary culture that presumes it can teach human society to achieve more and better.”
I wanted to move in humility’s direction - I have always believed that as a Christian (and follower of Jesus - who was in birth, life and death my teacher) that for me, humility is the most fundamental of virtues.
This book has been the beginning…I will (need to) read again and again. 😌
December 24, 2022
Let me start by saying that I am a huge fan of Richard Foster. I consider two of his books classics that I reread every few years to help me recenter myself along true discipleship. Further, I am an advocate for the Renovare spiritual development ideals. In his introduction Foster makes it clear that this work is very different. He's right.
I feel like this book is intended to be something on the order of Brother Lawrence, St. Teresa of Avila, or some such. By that, I mean it is a relatively random collection of thoughts from the author's mind which hopefully develop a coherent topic.
Honestly, 100 years from now people might think this qualifies. But to me there is far too much Indigenous American "spirituality" woven into writings that I expect to be fully Christ-centered. I don't deny the wisdom available from other sources, but Foster actually makes the indigenous thoughts almost the core thought of this volume.
I love you, Richard, my brother, and I respect your ongoing desire for depth. This is the only thing I'm aware of you publishing that I cannot recommend.
I feel like this book is intended to be something on the order of Brother Lawrence, St. Teresa of Avila, or some such. By that, I mean it is a relatively random collection of thoughts from the author's mind which hopefully develop a coherent topic.
Honestly, 100 years from now people might think this qualifies. But to me there is far too much Indigenous American "spirituality" woven into writings that I expect to be fully Christ-centered. I don't deny the wisdom available from other sources, but Foster actually makes the indigenous thoughts almost the core thought of this volume.
I love you, Richard, my brother, and I respect your ongoing desire for depth. This is the only thing I'm aware of you publishing that I cannot recommend.
February 28, 2023
I appreciated this book on many levels.
Richard Foster gives us a glimpse into a year of his life reading about, praying through, and contemplating what God wanted to teach him about humility. That is a gift to us as readers. He didn’t approach it as an expert writing about humility as that seems would defeat the purpose and meaning.
I did feel the train of thought bounced around with his sharing what he was learning about the Lakota people and other thoughts on humility. I can appreciate how he connected this to his journey of learning about humility, but at times it left me scratching my head with questions about how they are connected.
The topic is incredibly important in a culture filled with self-focused living. Our chief end is not to elevate ourselves and Foster seems to live and write about this very well. This book felt like I was sitting with Foster by his fire—which he writes about—and gleaning many insights into his prayer life for a year. And I will say again-that is a gift. I will continue to think about this topic in my own life.
Richard Foster gives us a glimpse into a year of his life reading about, praying through, and contemplating what God wanted to teach him about humility. That is a gift to us as readers. He didn’t approach it as an expert writing about humility as that seems would defeat the purpose and meaning.
I did feel the train of thought bounced around with his sharing what he was learning about the Lakota people and other thoughts on humility. I can appreciate how he connected this to his journey of learning about humility, but at times it left me scratching my head with questions about how they are connected.
The topic is incredibly important in a culture filled with self-focused living. Our chief end is not to elevate ourselves and Foster seems to live and write about this very well. This book felt like I was sitting with Foster by his fire—which he writes about—and gleaning many insights into his prayer life for a year. And I will say again-that is a gift. I will continue to think about this topic in my own life.
January 27, 2023
In his newest book, Richard Foster chronicles a year of his life focusing on humility. The book shares his personal journal reflections, giving the reader a unique glimpse into Richard Fosters life, while at the same time offering beautiful insights on the topic of humility. We learn that Richard Foster likes to tend fires, take walks in the snow, and read from a wide range of literature.
The book weaves in a journey with the Lakota calendar, and stories and lessons from the Lakota culture are included throughout the book. Reading this book provides a fascinating blend of gleanings about humility from both Christian history and also the Lakota people.
Thank you, Richard Foster, for the gift you give your readers, allowing us to glean from your careful studies and reflections.
The book weaves in a journey with the Lakota calendar, and stories and lessons from the Lakota culture are included throughout the book. Reading this book provides a fascinating blend of gleanings about humility from both Christian history and also the Lakota people.
Thank you, Richard Foster, for the gift you give your readers, allowing us to glean from your careful studies and reflections.
October 16, 2023
I can't believe I have finished this book! It has been almost 6 months of working my way through this text and I can say that I wish I took even longer to finish it! The best description I have seen of this book is it is like "a fireside chat". This book is centered around humility through the lens of the Christian faith which is an important thing to note, if you aren't religious or don't have an open mind when it comes to this then you won't get much from this book and that is ok! I however found great contemplative thought in this book and enjoyed the jumbled thought process that this book seems like at a glance. I can't confidently say I have learned a lot from this book and will be reading this again.
January 31, 2024
Learning Humility is a welcome reintroduction to Foster’s gentle leadership in spiritual formation. It is somewhat an autobiographical account being excerpts from Foster's journal. However, if you're looking for a book on how to be humble (from the title) this is not that kind of book. It is a book of musing, personal and beautiful. Foster journals through a whole year, reflecting on this highest Christian virtue, using the Lakota calendar, virtues, and history as a backdrop for doing so. Foster poses more questions than he answers and gives an appreciation for the wonder found in our faith and an example of grappling with questions throughout the ages. Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy to review.
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