The Way of Befriending: Transforming Relationships and Organizations for Belonging

Singer-songwriter Bassalé argues in his uplifting debut guide that making friends can help bridge the world’s divisions. Drawing from his experience facing xenophobia as a Senegalese immigrant in the U.S., Bassalé contends that befriending people, especially those from “othered” groups, is a way of recognizing the divine image in others and carrying out “God’s work of reconciliation and restoration.” Stations on his road map to forging such connection include ourageously tackling one’s biases, using curiosity to initiate interaction, and showing compassion and care even when it’s difficult. More broadly, he offers advice for making friends across social and cultural boundaries, as well as fostering new friendships within organizations. While the periodic inclusion of the author’s song lyrics can be awkward, he effectively uses biblical examples, including Jesus’s ability to reach out to the marginalized, to show how making connections can spur “growth and liberation” on small and large scales. The result is an inspiring faith-based program for broadening one’s social circle. (June)