Living the Quaker Way

1. Quakerism: A Life More Than a Religion

In the end, I am not inviting you to a church but to a life.

Quakerism's Essence. Quakerism is not merely a set of doctrines or rituals, but a way of living that emphasizes values such as simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. It's a path that can be embraced regardless of one's religious affiliation or lack thereof.

Inward Conviction. The Quaker tradition values inward convictions over outward rituals, prioritizing sincere dedication to these core principles. This emphasis on inward dedication explains the wide diversity among Friends today.

A Moral Compass. Whether rooted in a belief in God or simply a commitment to ethical living, Quakerism provides a moral compass for navigating the complexities of modern life. It's a call to action, urging individuals to embody these values in their daily interactions and contribute to a more just, loving, and peaceable world.

2. Simplicity: Beyond Austerity to Liberated Living

If you were to ask a modern Quaker what Friends value, it is almost certain the word simplicity would be mentioned before long, if not first.

Liberating Simplicity. Simplicity, in the Quaker context, is not about grim austerity or deprivation, but about living purposefully and intentionally. It's about freeing oneself from the distractions of materialism and focusing on what truly matters.

Materialism's Cost. The pursuit of material wealth often comes at a high cost, leading to exhaustion, strained relationships, and a sense of emptiness. By simplifying our lives, we can reclaim our time, energy, and focus, allowing us to cultivate deeper connections and pursue more meaningful endeavors.

Practical Steps. Embracing simplicity involves making conscious choices about our consumption habits, career preferences, and use of resources. It's about discerning between wants and needs, and prioritizing experiences and relationships over material possessions. It is about environmental sustainability.

3. Redefining Success: From Material Wealth to True Enrichment

What is needed is a new measure of success, for it is clear the further acquisition of goods is not only unsustainable but also ultimately unsatisfying.

Beyond Accumulation. Our society often equates success with the accumulation of wealth, but true success lies in contributing to the well-being of humanity, nurturing healthy relationships, and living a life of purpose and meaning.

Alternative Metrics. We can measure our success by the positive impact we have on others, the kindness and generosity we extend, and the degree to which we promote peace and justice in the world. It is about being a thoughtful steward of the resources we oversee.

A Shift in Focus. By shifting our focus from material gain to true enrichment, we can create a more just and sustainable world, where the well-being of all is valued above the accumulation of wealth by a few. It is about bringing joy and hope to others.

4. Peace Begins Within: Nonviolence as a Way of Life

The commitment to nonviolence begins with a commitment to noncoercion.

Beyond Physicality. Nonviolence, in the Quaker tradition, extends beyond the absence of physical force to encompass a commitment to noncoercion in all aspects of life. It's about respecting the autonomy and dignity of every individual.

Coercion's Roots. Coercion, the act of forcing compliance, is seen as the root of violence, whether it manifests in personal relationships, economic systems, or international relations. It is about refraining from manipulating others to get our way.

A Prophetic Witness. Living a life of nonviolence involves challenging systems of oppression and injustice, while also refraining from perpetuating violence in our own thoughts, words, and actions. It is about living one’s life as a prophetic witness against evil.

5. The Trap of Demonizing: Seeing Humanity in All

We only have to believe someone poses a threat to us to justify their demise.

Dehumanization's Danger. Demonizing those we fear or hate makes it easier to justify violence against them. By stripping people of their humanity, we create a moral distance that allows us to commit acts we would otherwise find unthinkable.

Language Matters. The language we use to describe others can either reinforce or dismantle prejudice. Avoiding hateful labels and promoting respectful dialogue are essential steps in building a more peaceful world.

Shared Humanity. Recognizing our shared humanity, our common dreams and struggles, is the foundation for empathy and compassion. It is about understanding others to be our companions and not our competitors.

6. Integrity: The Bedrock of Quaker Witness

To the Quaker, sincere dedication is preferred to public declarations that may or may not be earnest.

Beyond Honesty. Integrity, in the Quaker context, goes beyond simply telling the truth. It encompasses a wholeness of character, where our actions align with our values and our words reflect our deepest convictions.

Credible Witness. Early Quakers believed that their witness to the gospel depended on their reputation for integrity. If they were dishonest in human affairs, they couldn't be trusted to speak truthfully about God.

Self-Awareness. Cultivating integrity requires a commitment to self-awareness, acknowledging our own flaws and biases, and striving to live in accordance with our highest ideals. It is about being truthful with every person, starting with ourselves.

7. Truth-Seeking: A Lifelong Spiritual Journey

To seek truth is to commit oneself to the deepest reality, no matter where it leads, whether it affirms our religious beliefs or proves them wrong.

Beyond Doctrine. The Quaker tradition emphasizes the ongoing search for truth, rather than adherence to fixed doctrines or creeds. It's a journey of discovery, open to new insights and perspectives.

Openness to All. Quakers believe that truth can be found in diverse sources, including science, nature, and the experiences of others. They are committed to listening to all voices, even those that challenge their own beliefs.

Humility and Curiosity. The pursuit of truth requires humility, a willingness to question our assumptions, and a deep curiosity about the world around us. It is about welcoming doubt and skepticism.

8. Community: The Crucible for Growth and Transformation

It is because of our participation in the we that we learn to be an I.

Interconnectedness. Quakers believe that individuals thrive within the context of a supportive community. It is about learning how to love and grow, how to forgive, negotiate, compromise, yield, or stand our ground.

Mutual Support. Community provides a space for mutual support, encouragement, and accountability. It's a place where we can be challenged to grow and transform, and where we can offer the same to others.

Collective Discernment. Quakers value collective discernment, seeking God's will together through a process of listening, reflection, and dialogue. It is about making and implementing decisions affecting the community.

9. Equality: Recognizing the Divine in Every Person

Despite our differences, most all of us agree that to be a Quaker is to live out as best we can the virtues of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality.

Inherent Worth. The Quaker commitment to equality stems from a belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, regardless of race, gender, social status, or any other arbitrary distinction.

Challenging Injustice. Quakers have historically been at the forefront of movements for social justice, working to dismantle systems of oppression and ensure that all people have equal opportunities. It is about recognizing the Divine in every person.

A Call to Action. The pursuit of equality is an ongoing process, requiring us to challenge our own biases and prejudices, and to advocate for policies and practices that promote fairness and inclusion. It is about transforming beliefs into tangible change.

10. Action: Transforming Beliefs into Tangible Change

True centering down transcends worship. It is to bring one’s entire life into a place of listening and learning.

Beyond Contemplation. Quakerism is not just about inward reflection, but about translating our beliefs into tangible action. It's about living our values in the world and working to create a more just and compassionate society.

Bearing Witness. Quakers are called to bear witness to their faith through acts of service, advocacy, and resistance to injustice. It is about bringing one’s entire life into a place of listening and learning.

A Transformative Force. By embodying the values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality, we can become a transformative force in the world, inspiring others to join us in building a better future for all. It is about changing the mind, then the heart, and finally the world.

Last updated: March 30, 2025