Hi everyone!
As Summer takes its last lap in the Bay and many of us begin to spend more time indoors with loved ones, it feels like the perfect time to announce our November book — The Spirit of Intimacy: Ancient African Teachings in the Ways of Relationships by Sobonfu Some.
This book offers a glimpse into the pre-colonial familial and communal practices of a West African village, and offers lessons on how we might build greater intimacy within our friendships, families, and community. I’m told that though it is a small book it packs a mighty punch and requires lots of pausing and savoring, so don’t be fooled by the page count.
I’m also thrilled to share that the brilliant long-time BFBC member Rachelle (who suggested this book and gave the warning above) will be a first time co-facilitator! And in keeping with the theme of the book, Nikkia has graciously offered to host this gathering at her home! Such a treat. Truly can’t wait to dive in with you all.
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Book Description:
A renowned, respected teacher and mentor to thousands, Sobonfu Somi is one of the first and foremost voices of African spirituality to come to the West.
Somi was born in Dano, Burkina Faso, a remote West African village with a population of about two hundred people. Dano has preserved the old ways of African village life, with family structures, spiritual practices, and methods of living that have been in place for more than ten thousand years. In The Spirit of Intimacy, Somi distills the ancient teachings and wisdom of her native village to give insight into the nature of intimate relationships.
Somi generously applies the subtle knowledge from her West African culture to this one. Simply and beautifully, she reveals the role of spirit in every marriage, friendship, relationship, and community. She shares ancient ways to make our intimate lives more fulfilling and secure and offers powerful insights into the "illusion of romance," divorce, and loss. Her important and fascinating lessons from the heart include the sacred meaning of pleasure, preparing a ritual space for intimacy, and the connection between sex and spirituality. Her ideas are intuitively persuasive, provocative, and healing--and supported by sound practical advice, along with specific rituals and ceremonies based on those used for thousands of years.
With this book, the spiritual insights of indigenous Africa take their place alongside those of native America, ancient Europe, and Asia as important influences on Western readers.
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Getting the Book:
The Spirit of Intimacy is hard to come by at most local library branches, but there are a couple of copies at Oakland Public Library and Berkeley Public Library. You can also request a copy via Link+ Interlibrary Loan at your local library.
If you’d like to purchase locally (and Black-owned) Marcus Books just got a shipment of these in on Friday.
Marcus Books
3900 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Oakland, CA 94609
Location:
Nikkia’s Home in Laurel District, Oakland CA - exact location to be sent to RSVPs the day before the event.
