But, it's a good book for women to read to help understand their guys. And, since I'm happily married and have two sons, I decided I'd read through this - the Revised and Expanded Edition of Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul.
I was apprehensive at first, although I've always believed this book has done a lot of good for Christian men. I believe in the wildness of a man's soul. But, I also believe that men and women are more alike than not alike, and I'm concerned about things that place great divides between them. I was afraid that Wild at Heart would spread generalities such as "men like to be outdoors" and therefore, "women like to be indoors" (not necessarily true), "men want adventure" and therefore, "women want security" (not necessarily true) etc.
What about women who love adventure? What about women who don't mind picking up a sword? What about women who want to experience the wilderness of the soul? What about women who are strong and passionate and tough?
Don't get me wrong - I believe in a distinction between genders. I believe in being a loving wife, a nurturing Mom, and that kindness and sweetness are admirable qualities for a woman. But what about being an ezer? What about men and women working together in the Kingdom, both with dominion, both with the assignment to subdue the earth? Where would Eldredge put women in the plan of God? Can we fight alongside men, or can we only be fought for?
To my delight, Eldredge does recognize woman's call as an ezer. He writes: "Eve is given to Adam as his ezer kenegdo... it means something far more powerful than just "helper"; it means "lifesaver." Eve is a life giver; she is Adam's ally. It is to both of them that the charter for adventure is given. It will take both of them to sustain life. And they will both need to fight together."
Yes! Now I'm a big Wild at Heart fan. I believe it should be read by every Christian man and every married woman and every one who has a son. There are a few statements I didn't necessarily agree with, but, all in all, the book is all that I've heard it is - life-changing on a personal level and revolutionary for the body of Christ.
Anne, we're delighted that you enjoyed Wild at Heart! Thanks for helping spread the message.
ReplyDelete--Karen, for the Ransomed Heart Team
Anne, I wanted to send you a private message, but couldn't find a way to do that. So...
ReplyDeleteYou may have heard about John's upcoming book _Beautiful Outlaw_, coming out in October. (You can get more info here: www.beautifuloutlaw.net.)
We'd like to send a signed copy of _Beautiful Outlaw_ as our gift to you. If you like it, we'd be honored to have you review it on your blog. What do you think? If you're interested, please just send me a message (karen@ransomedheart.com) with your mailing address.
We hope to hear from you soon! Thanks, Anne.
Karen, for the Ransomed Heart Team
I have NEVER considered myself to be a stereotypical woman. I've dismissed many traditional gender assignments and wriggled in agony during my fair share of women's conferences and events. So, when Eldredge starting talking about saving the princess I wanted to gag. Until I realized I was a princess needing saving.
ReplyDeleteHis three questions that every woman asks had me crying: "Will you pursue me? Do you delight in me? Will you fight for me?"
I loved this paragraph, too: