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Awake: Doing A World Of Good One Person At A Time
If we're being honest, most of us live comfortable, safe, and relatively easy lives. We enjoy a quality and ease of living that most of the world could not even imagine, let alone pursue. After all, even the poorest people in America are amongst the top five percent of the wealthiest people in the world, and the faces of those who suffer the most across the globe are distant and unfamiliar to us. As we busily navigate the path towards the American Dream, another dream has been forgotten--the hope that what is broken in this world may be restored to its intended fullness. The truth is we know we should help those less fortunate than us, but the needs of the world are so overwhelming. Where do we start? Where can we make the most impact?
This compelling, story-driven book urges readers to open their eyes to the needs of a hurting world. It is a gripping, to-the-point challenge to get involved in realistic, positive change--one life at a time. Building on more than twenty years of experience in humanitarian relief efforts and community development around the world, author Noel Brewer Yeatts urges readers to realize that working to build a better world is not about guilt, handouts, or charity. It is about justice, compassion, and personal investment. She encourages readers to live a life fully awake . . . and doing a world of good.
This compelling, story-driven book urges readers to open their eyes to the needs of a hurting world. It is a gripping, to-the-point challenge to get involved in realistic, positive change--one life at a time. Building on more than twenty years of experience in humanitarian relief efforts and community development around the world, author Noel Brewer Yeatts urges readers to realize that working to build a better world is not about guilt, handouts, or charity. It is about justice, compassion, and personal investment. She encourages readers to live a life fully awake . . . and doing a world of good.
- GenresNonfictionChristian
174 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 27, 2015
While I am in favour of the intent of this book (inspiring others to act in the face of injustice) I disagree with the method in getting there (see below). This book is directed at Christians and much is assumed of the reader, but I think this is where the author loses much of the potential for impact.
After spending the majority of the book exploring the depths of depravity and pain in our world the author appeals to our desire for significance to go out and do something about it. It ends up coming across as an inspirational 'go change the world' message without the impetus or empowerment to do so. Contra the author, it isn't a matter of deciding to do something to make your life significant rather than safe. Rather, it is responding to the unconditional love and grace of God in gratitude and obedience that will drive us out of ourselves and into the lives of the others. It is not a question of significance - as if we can create that quality within our own strength - but of obedience and love as response that will allow God to use us as part of His reconciling redemptive work in this hurting world (including all aspects of creation).
I wish the author had shared more of her own deeper understanding of why Christians should respond at all in the face of such horrors. She may imply it here and there or quote a few others but never speaks to the strength of her own commitment to these causes. Instead she touches on the major issues affecting our world today and hopes this will inspire others to do something, anything, to help... Because we're Christians and we must.
Also, there is no talk of what sustains her or what Christian practices, if any, allow her to persevere through all this hardship, other than hope found in the 'progress' being made. Is this enough to keep someone going?
It becomes clear through the author's stories that her family has had a big role to play in shaping her own life and call to be involved in all that she is, and that's a great legacy to be a part of. If only more had such a rich history to draw life from.
Action is more important than debating but this is a book and you're trying to convince the reader of something they should give their life to. We already hear about all the horrible things going on in the world through the news, so that's nothing new (unfortunately). Instead, I believe Christians need to be inspired through the life, death, resurrection, and call of Christ to go out and bear His witness to a world in desperate need of redemption.
After spending the majority of the book exploring the depths of depravity and pain in our world the author appeals to our desire for significance to go out and do something about it. It ends up coming across as an inspirational 'go change the world' message without the impetus or empowerment to do so. Contra the author, it isn't a matter of deciding to do something to make your life significant rather than safe. Rather, it is responding to the unconditional love and grace of God in gratitude and obedience that will drive us out of ourselves and into the lives of the others. It is not a question of significance - as if we can create that quality within our own strength - but of obedience and love as response that will allow God to use us as part of His reconciling redemptive work in this hurting world (including all aspects of creation).
I wish the author had shared more of her own deeper understanding of why Christians should respond at all in the face of such horrors. She may imply it here and there or quote a few others but never speaks to the strength of her own commitment to these causes. Instead she touches on the major issues affecting our world today and hopes this will inspire others to do something, anything, to help... Because we're Christians and we must.
Also, there is no talk of what sustains her or what Christian practices, if any, allow her to persevere through all this hardship, other than hope found in the 'progress' being made. Is this enough to keep someone going?
It becomes clear through the author's stories that her family has had a big role to play in shaping her own life and call to be involved in all that she is, and that's a great legacy to be a part of. If only more had such a rich history to draw life from.
Action is more important than debating but this is a book and you're trying to convince the reader of something they should give their life to. We already hear about all the horrible things going on in the world through the news, so that's nothing new (unfortunately). Instead, I believe Christians need to be inspired through the life, death, resurrection, and call of Christ to go out and bear His witness to a world in desperate need of redemption.
August 4, 2019
I was disappointed in this book. I had this book on my reading list to give me suggestions on "doing good one person at a time". Instead it was full of needs I was already aware of. It is not possible for many people to travel to all the places the author has been going to her whole life. I was looking for more suggestions on how to help the homeless, hungry, mentally ill right next door. I know I can send money to help others in other places but I was looking to help physically.
October 28, 2013
I would like to say that this book changed my life, but we'll have to see if my future actions show that. Right now my heart is broken that there are so many children in this world dying because they don't have access to clean water. We have to do something about it. I have to do something about it.
February 11, 2020
While the intent of this book is laudable, and probably works to its purpose of direct inspiration, it is sorely lacking with respect to the practical advice necessary to consider when thinking about making a difference in the world. The statistics laid out are powerful, but desperately need a rational directive to go along with them, moving beyond the mere cliches and appeals to empathy.
June 22, 2017
great book on being really " awake" and seeing the needs of the world and choosing to act in whatever way you can
June 5, 2018
Must read
Read the 1st chapter in a bookstore but didn't buy it however the chapter had be captivated so I brought the book online and finished it! It's truly an eye opener
Read the 1st chapter in a bookstore but didn't buy it however the chapter had be captivated so I brought the book online and finished it! It's truly an eye opener
September 10, 2013
Noel Yeates is re-releasing her book "Awake" this week. And next week there will be a Facebook community book study. I just have to tell y'all about this book. Because it will open your eyes and your heart in big ways.
Have you heard of the organizations World Help and CauseLife? I had but until I read this book I really didn't know what they were all about. World Help is an amazing organization that brings hope, food, medical care, and clothing to those areas in the world that have nothing. Where kids don't go to school, children die everyday because there is no clean water and no medical care, and where kids have no food because they are alone. Cause Life brings clean water to places that have none. Where digging a well costs so much money that there are none. Where drinking out of contaminated rivers and streams is the norm.
In "Awake", Noel introduces you to the children that deal with these problems in real life. And she tells their stories in a way that you feel like you know them. Would you like to meet a few of them? You can see pictures and videos of them here: : http://noelyeatts.com/awake/photo-gal.... You can read some of their stories here: http://noelyeatts.com/awake/.
After you read their stories and see their pictures how can you not be involved? Noel says so many great things in this book that I have to share a few of her quotes about being involved.
"When we stand before God one day, will we really say that we didn't know? Will we really say that we didn't see the needs of our world - that we chose to look away? What will our excuse be for not getting involved?" (p.45)
"Do we want to stay safe, or do we want to change the world? We can't have it both ways." (p.119)
"Real change requires action. There's no substitute for it." (p.142)
"I have often said that if we really want to know God, we have to be willing to know everything about Him. Not just the pretty stuff. Not just the stuff that is easy. Not just the stuff that makes us feel good. We have to be willing to embrace all that God is about, all that He loves, and all that breaks His heart." (p. 42)
"If we truly see, then we really can help." (p. 45)
There are so many ways to be involved because once you know about it you can't ignore it.
Do you have a blog? You can find out more information on being a World Help blogger here :
https://worldhelp.net/wp-content/uplo...
Then you can sign up here:
http://worldhelp.net/bloggers/
You can find out more information on other ways to help at http://www.worldhelp.net.
You can participate in the online study:
Details for Study:
6 Weeks: Each Friday, September 20th-October 25th
We can all meet at the host blogger's place, and hangout to chat about what that particular part of the book meant to us. We can share quotes or take-aways in comments. It would be wonderful to engage with the other readers about it.
If you are able to write teasers or share links on corresponding Fridays leading your readers to the host's site, that would be great, too. (I will provide the list and links soon.)
Here is link to RSVP for Online Study: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Zve2...
Link to Awake Study Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/19200...
Link to Study Guide: http://noelyeatts.com/wp-content/uplo...
**I received this book as part of the re-launch team. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 29, 2016
I won this book as a Goodreads giveaway almost three years ago. I forgot I did but when I moved I decided to read. I am glad I did. I am in a period of my life where I have little time but am also feeling lost. And this book answered why. I found this book a very quick read and inspiring. It enourages action and provides examples of how even the smallest of compassionate, just, charitable actions can create a ripple effect with a lasting positive outcome. It is a call for all people to act - though written from a Christian missionary position, there is very little preaching and a whole lot of common sense kindness and call to action. I am compelled to share this book but have written all over it and want to read through it often so anyone reading this review who has ever felt called to do more for themselves and their fellow humans - READ THIS BOOK!! It is inspirational and gives concretes examples of getting involved. So grateful this book is in my possession.
January 31, 2021
Awake is a good, slim, call-to-action to get off your rear and justly serve your fellow brothers and sisters in need. Noel Brewer Yeatts' tone is altruistic and inspirational. At my time of reading, the book is seven years old, so some of the data is outdated. However, the fact that she has researched statistics shows a willingness to learn how to serve that we all should have. There are many direct connections that she makes to scripture and Christianity. One of my favorite lines in the book is, "Understanding the true meaning of Justice carries responsibility but ultimately leads to hope." Justice means loving the poor, ill, naked, orphaned, widowed, abandoned, and enslaved. So many of us can do so much more; we just need to become awake.
July 30, 2012
I just finished the book Awake by Noel Brewer Yeatts. This was not by any means the feel good book of the year but oddly enough it was inspiring. There are stories in here that will bring you to tears with their brutal honesty, but at the same time it will open your eyes to what is really happening in the world outside. After reading this you will realize how good things in your life truly are. Just be warned some parts can get a bit preachy but that shouldn’t discourage anyone from reading this. Hopefully this book does its job and makes you want to get up and help create a better place here on earth.
December 31, 2012
Emotionally draining and revitalizing. Not your average missionary book. The book shows our American gluttony, but showing that a small monetary effort or physical work can change the lives if many people.
This isn't an easy read, but it will be one that stays with me for years.
Do something. You can't teach a dead man. Simple concepts at times overly simplistic, but how can you ignore suffering of others.
Another great comment, "we don't care how much you know, until we know how much you care."
A worthy read or listen for anyone. This review isn't fair for the quality of the book or my feelings for it.
This isn't an easy read, but it will be one that stays with me for years.
Do something. You can't teach a dead man. Simple concepts at times overly simplistic, but how can you ignore suffering of others.
Another great comment, "we don't care how much you know, until we know how much you care."
A worthy read or listen for anyone. This review isn't fair for the quality of the book or my feelings for it.
November 26, 2013
I would have given this book 3.5 stars if I could have. When I first started listening, I thought it was the narrator that annoyed me, but then realized it was the underlying message that Jesus is the answer to all the worlds problems that turned me off of it. I was under the impression it was written with a humanistic approach, not a Christian perspective. That was not clear in the description of the book. That aside, she did a great job of telling us how oblivious we all are to the worlds problems and I am inspired to be more "awake" and to search out opportunities to help ease suffering one person at a time.
December 29, 2015
Awake: Doing a World of Good One Person at a Time by Noel Brewer Yeatts is really more about the first part of the title than the second. This book is a call to awareness. Yeatts gives many statistics and stories about the struggles of the lower economic classes around the world. It give very little advice on actually meeting those needs (which is what I was hoping for based on the subtitle).
If you are looking for a book of anecdotes to shock you out of complacency, than this is your book.
If you are looking for practical advice or suggestions on meeting needs, this is not your book.
If you are looking for a book of anecdotes to shock you out of complacency, than this is your book.
If you are looking for practical advice or suggestions on meeting needs, this is not your book.
January 18, 2016
I thought that this book was very inspiring and convicting. I have a better understanding of how I can help the world by helping one person. I felt like the author was very self-promoting though. I felt like I was reading about how many people she has helped and how much she has done for the world and "Yeah, I went on mission trips all the time as a kid". God deserves the glory for what you have done in your life. Don't forget that He is the one who gives us those opportunities, and we should do all those things in His name. Other than that, I thought that there were some great tips and pointers for how people can change the world more than they think.
October 6, 2013
First I want to say that I've read quite a few books on this subject matter, so while a lot of this information wasn't new to me, it was a nice refresher. If you're interested in educating yourself on missions and reaching out to others in need this is a good place to start. It's short and very moving, I would also recommend you check out her website. I'm planning on using some of her videos to show our students for missions month in November.
January 24, 2014
This was a great book for anyone looking to find purpose and meaning in the life they're trying to live. That sounds vague, but it provides reason and hope for charitable work in the world. It does lend itself particularly to faith-based charity, but I feel that even for non-religious readers there is a hopeful and enduring message that all of humanity benefits from helping those of our weakest.
June 16, 2014
This is really more of an infomercial to raise awareness for needy women and children than an in-depth book. Still, the people in need are real and action must be taken as quickly as possible to solve the problems causing poverty and illness. We, the privileged few, must help the many. So I don't take the message lightly and hope to make a difference.
June 19, 2014
This book will wake you up! Good quotes from sources such as Brad Pitt, Mother Teresa and Dale Carnegie on world poverty, disease, and lack of fresh water. It doesn't leave you feeling hopeless just inspired to do a small part each one of us and help one child in the third world. Slowly change can happen.
October 15, 2012
Best book I've read all year! A true eye opener.
February 17, 2013
amazing book with great morals. read if you want to know what is real.
May 13, 2013
I recommend this book to anyone who has the privilege of literacy.
April 14, 2014
It was a good book but the format could have been made better.
July 23, 2014
"Live a life fully awake to the needs of this world. " - Quote from book that sums everything up & is also a great motto we should live by.
January 15, 2015
Let's roll...
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews