This posthumous book has been edited by Gabrielle Earnshaw who oversaw a treasury of personal papers by Henri J. M. Nouwen (1932 – 1996). She found in his archive 16,000 letters and learned that "he kept every postcard, piece of paper, fax and greeting card that arrived in the mail. And he responded to each of them."
In the preface, Earnshaw salutes Nouwen's insights into spirituality which he called "adventures with God." He wrote about the different stages in his life's journey, his struggle with his demons, his conflicted feelings about his sexuality, his yearning for human affection, and his reframing problems and setbacks as gateways to love, compassion, and meaning.
Earnshaw believes that the following question was central to Nouwen's life and ministry: "How can I find a creative and fulfilling intimacy with God and my fellow human beings?" Here you will find letters to former Oregon Senator Hatfield, TV host Fred Rogers, spiritual writer Dan Wakefield, and others including friends, fellow activists, and those concerned with matters of faith and practice. The wise counsel and tender advice given freely by Nouwen gives us a keen appreciation of his gentleness, hospitality, and openness.
