The Good Life: Truths That Last in Times of Need by Peter J. Gomes. Epiphany-OviedoELCA library section 3 B: General Christianity. After more than 30 years as minister of Harvard’s Memorial Church, Gomes has given more than his share of advice to the best and the brightest as they are prepare themselves to take their places in the world. Yet even the bright and privileged sometimes stumble in the face of life’s realities.
What defines a good life? How does a person build one? Gomes distinguishes between what our culture tells us will give us a good life (fame, money, “toys”) and the truth of what alone can bring true and abiding happiness. He redefines the central elements of a good life (success, failure, discipline and freedom) and then presents four foundational virtues on which to build a good life: prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude. These old-sounding words are rarely discussed in newspapers, magazines, or even books. What is meant by them and why are they so important even in this new millennium? How can they help us to formulate a good way to live? Gomes explains and unpacks each one.
In the latter part of the book, Gomes goes on to argue passionately for the three religious virtues of faith, hope and love. These three especially will enable a person to live a truly good life. While money, fame and “stuff” can be fleeting, faith, hope and love abide forever, never wear out, are always basic and necessary to the good life.
As a Harvard senior my son took a course from Gomes, and I have read most of Gomes’ books. His writing is brilliant and informed, yet his books are so readable and understandable. They are witty, intelligent, and thought-provoking. He talks about the basic building blocks of ethical and moral living without being exclusionary, or inducing guilt or shame within us. His writing challenges us to be the best people we can be – to be inclusionary, just, fair, loving, faithful, compassionate and hopeful. He is simply the best theologian out there. We now have four of his books in our library. Enjoy them all. I reread them now and then to find refreshment, commune with a bright religious mind, and to stay on the good path as much as I can. ( )