Faith, Family, Furry, and Fire

Book excerpt: Brad Zervas reveals something quite different from his previous literary efforts in Faith, Family, Furry, and Fire. While his other books focus on practical ways to raise our boys and support our fathers, this work explores the Way of St. Francis and the belief that all living things deserve our consideration. When embraced, this idea could lead us to a more just and sustainable world order. As an ecologist, defender of plants and animals, and as a man who turned away from material riches, St. Francis discovered that all living things exist in the dominion of his “Father.” He blazed a trail that others have tried to follow for centuries. The author observes that while we have worked tirelessly to find ways to divide ourselves into specific groups with the intent of somehow elevating ourselves so that God sees us and not the other, it has always been the other that has been able to show us the depths and possibilities of kindness. He concludes that faith, family, fire, and furry remain embedded in our lives—the four basic elements that knowingly and unknowingly comprise the very chemistry that shapes us—pilgrims each walking toward our last and final surrender.