Brothers and sisters Quote by Henri Nouwen
““In solitude we can come to the realization that we are not driven together but brought together. In solitude we come to know our fellow human beings not as partners who can satisfy our deepest needs, but as brothers and sisters with whom we are called to give visibility to God's all-embracing love. In solitude we discover that community is not a common ideology, but a response to a common call. In solitude we indeed realize that community is not made but given.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Way of the Heart, 1995
Solitude reveals that community is a gift, not a construct, urging us to love others selflessly.
In simple terms: Solitude shows community is a given, not made.
Embrace solitude to foster genuine community.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- spiritual retreats
- group counseling
- faith gatherings
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does community mean to you beyond shared beliefs?
- How can solitude deepen your sense of belonging?
Solitude can also lead to isolation if not balanced with interaction.