"Wisdom Meets Passion"

TITLE: Wisdom Meets Passion: When Generations Collide and Collaborate
AUTHOR: Dan Miller and Jared Angaza
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2012, (272 pages).

This book maintains that both wisdom and passion are needed for whatever work we do. It aims to help blend together accomplishing financial goals and creating meaningful work. Wisdom ties everything together, thus the title of the book. Using an intergenerational approach to describe the differences among two generations, the authors themselves each represent one end of the spectrum. Dan represents the "passion" end where stewardship, responsibility and hard work defines their tradition. Jared represents the go-getter generation, daring to breech traditional boundaries in order to fulfill his dream. The focus is not on questioning traditions or perspectives, but on accepting ourselves the way God has accepted and created us to be.

The book begins with a clarion call for readers to dream big. It is one thing to be faithful with what we have. It is yet another, to seek out better future through passion and dreaming. Knowing that there are many who grew up in a conservative tradition, the authors show sensitivity to the culture among the Baby Boomers, and the older generation, recognizing the inner need for some form of security. Gently, the authors point out seven areas in which one can improve and excel in. Areas such as financial, social, personal development, physical, spiritual, family, and career. They acknowledge the level of debt by many families which can easily stifle any desire to achieve one's dreams. That did not stop the authors from teaching ten steps to education, and becoming rich too! In the new generation, traditional barriers are no longer career or dream limiting. With Facebook, internet, and the social media, as long as one can dream, anything is possible. Throughout the book, the emphasis is consistent. Dream big. Attempt big. Live a great life and do not settle simply for a good life.

Chapter 5 offers a theological perspective on work excellence. Develop a passion that is contagious. Chapter 6 probes the identity and destiny. Learn to imagine, to dream, to anticipate, to set realistic goals, to plan, to act, and to realize one's dreams. This book is pure perk-me-up vocational challenge for us to go all out, to dare to dream, and to dare to make that dream a reality. Most importantly, one needs to be crystal clear that it is a path one desires to do. There is no shame in wanting to make more money, only shame if we fail to exercise our talents when God has given us talents.

I am reminded of Mark Twain's famous words.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."

This book is another way of showing us how and why. The generation gap is not meant to be a barrier to bridging wisdom of the old with the passion of the new. Instead, it is meant to show us the strengths and weaknesses of both eras, that the best way to move forward is to work together. I like the way the book is summarized through the following:

1. Find your story.
2. Face your fears.
3. Be resourceful without resources.
4. Keep it simple.
5. Build trust.
6. Giving is good business.

The last chapter on work is indeed one of the strongest parts of the book. It also shows us the common ground both traditional as well as the modern generation has in common. Both will reach old age one day. Perhaps, when that day comes, it may very well be too late to regret not fulfilling our dreams. Take this book as an apt reminder that we are called to be the best that we are created to be. No more. No less.

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Thomas-Nelson and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.