"This book is truly an invitation to discover how we learn to be brave over a lifetime, not just in situations that require courageous decisions in the moment. Mariann Edgar Budde speaks with honesty about the challenges of our time and the problems we face in an ever-deepening national divide. She fills us with hope and strength as she turns our hearts and minds away from despair with stories of time, tradition, and personal experience. Budde lights the path for what it means to embody courage in each and every moment. And she faithfully reminds us who we are along the way."--Beth Graybill, Collaborative Storyteller, Teacher & Conscious Consultant in South Bend, Indiana

"I first met Bishop Mariann more than five years ago. I love connecting with new ministry leaders who share the same mission that I am on. As you'll soon read in this book, though, we don't necessarily agree on every aspect of theology, ministry philosophy and some of the cultural issues of our day. However, that's exactly what I need in my life. I need people who push my thinking. I need people who challenge me to see the world around me from a different perspective. In her uniquely humble way, Bishop Mariann does that for me. It's one of the reasons I respect her so much. I know she wants the best for me even when she disagrees with me. This has been my experience when I open my heart and mind to different perspectives. Not only does it help me discover new wisdom, it also helps to reinforce my personal convictions. I've learned that understanding and embracing our convictions points us to our purpose in this world. Our calling is revealed. It's around those convictions and that calling that we often discover where we need to be brave. If you are a person of influence, you need to read How We Learn to Be Brave."--Tony Morgan, Founder & Lead Strategist of The Unstuck Group and author of The Unstuck Church

"Bishop Mariann gives powerful voice to a courage that comes not from headline-grabbing moments but from the daily commitment to persevere in faithfulness. In breaking open her own journey of doubt and decision, she provides a roadmap for a leadership rooted in humility, introspection, and selfless determination, all of which our world so desperately needs." --Dr. Michael E. Hill, President, Chautauqua Institution

"From page one, you're given instant VIP access to the private thoughts of a public figure and spiritual leader who is active on the history making frontlines affecting generations. Equal parts personal memoir, letter to a friend, motivating sermon, and collection of short stories, How We Learn To Be Brave is easy and enjoyable to read. It's Bishop Mariann Budde's uncensored honesty that lifts our spirit. At every turn, we learn being brave is found in one of us and all of us at the same time. Mariann says, "Hearing another person's courageous journey, we can't help but consider our own." I feel that, and you will, too, in the best way."--Kem Meyer, Communications Consultant and author of Less Chaos. Less Noise