Healing the Heart of Humanity
3995
Healing the Heart of Humanity
3995
The Outer and Inner Alchemy of Reconciliation between Masculine and Feminine
Hohm Press
510 pages
7 x 10
978-1-963433-16-6
Inspired by principles of Truth and Reconciliation, the Gender Equity and Reconciliation International (GERI) program has delivered innovative trainings for over 30 years to tens of thousands of people on six continents. Endorsed by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, GERI provides a rare forum for revolutionary transformation of injustice relating to gender and sexuality, and establishing beloved community.
The GERI process begins with the “outer” alchemy of reconciliation in community—transforming and rebalancing masculine/feminine dynamics in groups and communities. The polarity of feminine/masculine is but one manifestation of a more general principle of cosmic complementarity, expressed indifferent ways across the traditions: solar/lunar archetypes, anima/animus (Jung), yin/yang (Taoism), form/emptiness (Buddhism), and so on. Each polarity represents a spectrum, and the union of the respective dualities opens an intimate hidden pathway of “inner” alchemy that leads to profound spiritual realization. This remarkably transformative path can be found in all major spiritual traditions.
Every human being has a legitimate voice in the gender conversation. To honor this, GERI has developed its signature program for healing between women and men, as well as specialized programs focusing on gender-diverse communities, racial intersections, and an integrative program uniting all the above. Everyone wins from dismantling a catastrophic system that harms everyone.
Featuring inspiring real-life breakthroughs, plus key contributions from twelve luminaries, this book heralds a new civilization of harmony and beloved community in human societies everywhere.
REVIEWS
Schauch threads elements of his Buddhist spiritual practice through accounts of his mountain climbing experiences.
In the essay “Bones,” the author tells of how he and his wife, Chantal, were climbing in the Himalayas when a storm halted their ascent. While waylaid, Schauch found a cavern filled with the remains of explorers from 2,400 years ago. The event reminded him of a bardo, a “state of transition” in which one should not become stuck. Similarly, in another story, he connects his climb in Utah to Tara, “a physical manifestation of the sacred feminine.” “Brent” tells a story of Schauch and his spouse climbing Canada’s Mount Matier. When they spotted a moose, the couple oddly felt that it bore the essence of their friend, Brent; two days later, Schauch learned of Brent’s death. This memory is the most affecting in the collection, although some readers may find the author’s theories regarding Brent’s schizophrenia diagnosis concerning: “What if…psychosis offered critical clues to our continued evolution—clues to align ourselves with the sacred wisdom of Earth?” Schauch also shares accounts of people he’s met during his travels, including a trio of sisters: Palma, Karma, and Pemba. The sentiment of Schauch’s work is notable and the language is often gorgeous: “When we allow ourselves…rest in the hearth of Earth—the unabated stillness of the peaks and valleys…” However, in lieu of complete stories, the author presents brief vignettes whose momentum is stymied by repetitive Buddhist instruction. The peaceful world for which he strives is a beautiful one, and he makes the importance of nature in creating this harmony clear. However, a description of “sacred wisdom” often leans on basic platitudes: “It is an ancient language. A sacred language. A language not of concepts but of Earth. It is the language of the Heart.” At another point, he states that “we cannot think our way to the Truth of our essence.” Essentially, this is a primer on Buddhism with occasional personal stories, but some readers are sure to connect with Schauch’s reflections.
— KIRKUS REVIEW July 2026
A spiritual treatise with moments of emotional resonance.Young and old, working for justice must rank as our highest priority. %e brave accounts in this volume across many divides are inspiring, demonstrating that we can successfully step up and show up to do this courageous work, and reclaim our humanity. We must continually make this work accessible, to reach every neighbourhood. It is that urgent.
— Lechesa Tsenoli, Deputy Speaker, National Assembly, Parliament of South Africa
A deep and powerful exploration of gender opposition, gender injustice, and the pathway through this su$ering to a vision and life as one human family.
— Rev. Joan Jiko Halifax, Abbot, Upaya Zen Center, Santa Fe, NM
Magni¢ heartfelt healing work that is leading us toward the love we long for. It gifts us a map of deep positive transformation we can use in these troubled and divisive times.
— Jack Kornfield, Founder of Spirit Rock Meditation Center, author of A Path With Heart
