The Journey Toward an Undivided Life

Quote: "The soul is generous: it takes in the needs of the world. The soul is wise: it suffers without shutting down. The soul is hopeful: it engages the world in ways that keep opening our hearts." — Parker J. Palmer, A Hidden Wholeness

For the past month, I've immersed myself in A Hidden Wholeness: The Journey Toward an Undivided Life, my third exploration of Parker J. Palmer’s profound works. This book delves into the concept of wholeness—a core part of our being that stays true to who we really are. In the chaos of life, which Parker metaphorically describes as a "blizzard," we often lose our way. This book is an invitation to embark on a spiritual journey back to our true selves.

At first, Parker’s ideas might seem a bit abstract. However, his down-to-earth discussions, enriched with personal stories and metaphors, soon make the concept of a "hidden wholeness" feel real and tangible. He paints a picture of our soul as something deeply shy, retreating whenever it feels threatened.

We all know what it’s like to live a divided life, where the person we present to the world doesn’t quite match who we are inside. Parker offers relatable examples: ignoring that small voice inside us that speaks the truth, staying in relationships that diminish us, or dedicating time to projects we don’t believe in. Fear of judgment often pushes us to hide our true selves, leaving us frustrated and disconnected from our inner wisdom.

Yet, Parker reminds us that while living a divided life is common, choosing wholeness is always possible. He believes that the journey to reconnect with our hidden soul isn’t something we have to do alone. Instead, we need a supportive community—a “circle of trust”—to help guide us through life’s blizzard and reconnect with our generous, wise, and creative soul.

The Circle of Trust

In this book, Parker explores the idea of a "circle of trust"—a kind of community that welcomes the soul and helps us hear its voice. This circle provides a safe space where we can explore our struggles, guided by others who listen without judgment and ask thoughtful questions that help us find our own answers. The norms of this circle are counter-cultural: no fixing, no saving, no advising, no setting each other straight. It’s a rare but powerful experience that I would love to be part of.

The Clearness Committee

Parker also introduces the concept of a smaller group called the "clearness committee," a practice rooted in Quaker tradition. The clearness committee is based on two convictions: our inner teacher, or soul, holds the guidance we need, and we require a community to help us clarify and amplify its voice. In this safe and trusted space, a person can gain clarity and direction by being asked open, honest questions. Parker provides specific guidelines on how to form and participate in such a committee, emphasizing the importance of honoring the person seeking clarity.

Non-Violence as a Third Way

Parker advocates for choosing non-violence as a third way of living—a commitment to act in ways that honor the soul in every situation. He argues that even though non-violence may not change the world immediately, it always changes us for the better by fostering reverence and respect.

In summary, A Hidden Wholeness is a deeply insightful book for anyone who wants to reconnect with their true self, live by their values, and embrace the person they are at heart. Parker J. Palmer beautifully captures the essence of our soul’s journey, urging us to become healers in a wounded world by returning to our "hidden wholeness" amid life’s storms.

"When we catch sight of the soul, we can become healers in a wounded world—in the family, in the neighborhood, in the workplace, and in political life—as we are called back to our ‘hidden wholeness’ amid the violence of the storm." — Parker J. Palmer

Edwin Wong Author and Critic Sine memoria nihil