 |
 |
|
| The true pathway to peace and reconciliation is here unfolded by Jack Gaines. It leads to freedom and growth instead of the self-imposed prison created by hatred. Forgiveness is at the core of this peace-building paradigm.
But can this process work for nations? Is it not just another religious discourse? Jack Gaines’s response is quite striking as he states: “The world is searching for peace, but peace is not in the DNA of man.” Most of the time in history and even today, religions have fueled hatred or prevented countries from reaching peace. This book is not about religion; it is about understanding the deep roots of our inability, as humans, to achieve peace and reconciliation. Jack Gaines’s personal experience as well as his search for peace has led to some groundbreaking revelations. And I have been privileged to meet him in his journey and to partake with him in the process which led, in December 1999, to the organization of “The Leaders Conference for Reconciliation & Development” in Cotonou (Benin Republic). |
Now, as a teacher for over 35 years, Jerry Gaines attempts in Forty Stories High to put into words his experience with all kinds of kids. He taught them about history. He taught them how to preservere through life's inevitable tough times. He taught them how to love by loving them first, and he taught them how to look with faith and confidence toward the future. But most importantly, he convinced them that anything is possible-that school wasn't such a bad place. This book gets right to the heart of who Jerry Gaines really is-a true mentor. I believe that one of the reasons the kids had so much respect for this man was because he didn't just talk the talk; he walked it everyday.
|
