Who am I? Most of us wrestle with this question at some point in life. Most of us answer it in terms of worldly identity―what we have done, and what other people think of us. Nouwen did not. Nouwen answered the question in the only complete way possible. He answered it in spiritual terms.

The words on these pages are a brief glimpse at Henri Nouwen's lifelong endeavor to convince each of us that we are God's beloved children.

Nouwen was always inviting people to join him on his pilgrimage. He explained that through our brokenness, pain, and uncertainty, we find our way back to God's love. Now, I invite you to step into that journey. I hope you discover that, no matter what struggles you face, there is one truth that you should never forget: You are the son or daughter of a great king. He is your father and your God. The world may praise you or criticize you. It matters not. He is with you, always at your side, guiding and protecting you. Do not fear because you are his.