Harvey Gillman

Consider the Blackbird is a masterful blend of philosophy, history, and personal memoir—both thoughtful personal story and careful academic treatise. In a very few pages, Gillman delivers a satisfying discussion of topics that have each been the subject of much larger books, including a short introduction to post-modernism, the problems in defining and redefining God, and a surprisingly fresh look at God and science. He recounts how the G word has been replaced with Spirit or Life (among show more others) and expands the definition of neighbor to include all humankind. With ease, Gillman moves smoothly from the personal to the universal and back again. show less

Born a Jew, discovering himself to be gay, and having become a Quaker, Gillman fascinated by minority culture and how it is reflected in language and spirituality. This book is an exploration of these themes. It is also a celebration of all aspects of the self, which are the gifts we have to offer to the world around us.

Although this book was originally written in 1988 it was substantially revised in 2003. I feel that this is still the best introduction to the spiritual life of the Society. It doesn’t neglect the practical aspects, but reading it again helps me rediscover the excitement of discovery that I felt when I first encountered Quakerism. Havey Gillman is not only very erudite but is also a writer who is gifted in conveying the emotions and excitement of discovery. Whether or not you have read show more other books in Quakerism and feel that you’re past such introductions as this appears to be, do not reject it!! I still pick it up from time to time to help me discover the excitement. Richard Hilkin 2011

Another review
This is an approachable introduction to Quakerism that, I feel, has been supplanted by "Being a Quaker" by Geoffrey Durham which is a more complete and modern approach. Nonetheless, this book presents the Religious Society of Friends to the general public or inquirers in a readily understood way and suggests further avenues to explore if one is interested. show less

In this essay, the author shares a perspective that enlivens the desire to reach out to others, offering language that could deepen and strengthen honest religious dialogue. The author elevates three fundamental principles for outreach: (1) There is something sacred in each person; (2) how we relate to people is what we actually believe about them; and (3) how we treat others is our personal statement about God.