At the very heart of belonging is spirituality—the deeply held belief that we’re inextricably connected to each other by something greater than us—rooted in love and compassion…
Brené Brown
Connected to Each Other
Topic: Spiritual Growth & Practice
Well, when I started looking into belonging, and I started really wanting to understand the bones of belonging—what does it mean? How do we, from a researcher’s perspective—and probably my own personal armor, really—is: What are the data here? What exactly is happening here? And I think the first thing that was surprising to me is that at the very heart of belonging is spirituality—not religion, not dogma, but spirituality, and a very important, specific tenet of spirituality, which I believe cuts across faith and denomination and belief system. And by “spirituality” I mean the deeply held belief that we’re inextricably connected to each other by something greater than us. And that thing that is greater than us is rooted in love and compassion—that there’s something bigger than us and that we are connected to each other in a way that cannot be severed.
Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston, where she holds the Huffington Foundation – Brené Brown Endowed Chair at The Graduate College of Social Work. Additionally, she serves as a visiting professor in management at The University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business. Brown's academic roles are extensions of her deeper mission to explore the themes of courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. Her research is not just data and theories; it's an invitation to engage with the very elements that make us human.
Brown has spent two decades contributing to our understanding of emotional and social dynamics through her research and writing. She is the author of five books that have risen to the top of the New York Times bestseller list: "The Gifts of Imperfection," "Daring Greatly," "Rising Strong," "Braving the Wilderness," and "Dare to Lead." These works offer pragmatic insights into the nature of human connection. They encourage the reader to embrace their own vulnerabilities, pointing out that it's often in these spaces of uncertainty and risk that we discover our capacity for love and belonging.
Beyond the page, Brown expands her reach through various platforms. Her TED talk, "The Power of Vulnerability," has been viewed more than 50 million times worldwide. She also hosts two podcasts, "Unlocking Us" and "Dare to Lead," providing a space for ongoing discussions about the complexities of the human experience. In 2019, she broke new ground with her Netflix special, "The Call to Courage," becoming the first researcher to present a filmed lecture on the streaming service. Through all these avenues, Brown underscores the need for a heart-centered approach to life, one that makes room for both the challenges and the beauty of our shared human journey.
Braving the Wilderness
Brown, Brené. “Dr. Brené Brown - Strong Back, Soft Front, Wild Heart.” Edited by Krista Tippett, On Being with Krista Tippett, The On Being Project, On Being Studios, onbeing.org/programs/brene-brown-strong-back-soft-front-wild-heart-feb2018/.
Brené Brown
Theme: Spiritual Growth
Brené Brown on Belonging [Commentary]
Brené Brown’s view reveals that at the heart of belonging lies a spiritual belief in our interconnectedness, anchored in love and compassion. This perspective shifts from seeking external validation to an inner realization of our connection to a greater whole. Brown’s work shows belonging as a spiritual practice, emphasizing our ties beyond the physical, in a realm shaped by love and compassion. Here, spirituality isn’t confined by religion but is a shared human experience, where everyone finds a place.
In her exploration, Brown points out the dynamic nature of spirituality and belonging, requiring authenticity and sometimes the courage to stand alone. This spiritual practice is about seeing the sacred in being part of something bigger and honoring our values, even at the risk of isolation. True belonging, as Brown describes, doesn’t ask us to change but to be ourselves, fully. It’s a call to engage with the world with honesty and openness, fostering deeper connections while staying true to our beliefs.
Brown’s insights into spirituality offer a fresh perspective on how we connect and find meaning. Her research and writings consistently offer a path to a more connected, meaningful life. Through this lens, she invites us to move beyond superficial interactions and embrace our shared humanity, discovering a deeper sense of purpose and connection. This approach celebrates the diverse expressions of spirituality, contributing to our collective experience.
Brené Brown on Belonging [continued from Context (above)]
Brené Brown on Spirituality [Excerpts]
Resources
Related Quotes
Copyright © 2017 – 2024 LuminaryQuotes.com About Us