Evolution's Promise: Meditations of a Magical Thinker

The poetry of Evolution's Promise is influenced and framed by Integral -- or Evolutionary -- Theory, one implication of which is that evolution is impelling people of faith to recognize truths, goodness and beauty found in other faith traditions and integrate those values into their own belief systems. While celebrating supreme values central to all religions, Johnson strives to avoid dogmas that distinguish the great faiths from one another but which do little to contribute to the believer's spiritual life. As a result, the poems in Evolution's Promise can serve as catalysts for spiritual growth, regardless of one's religion. The author draws on his spiritual optimism, subtle humor and pithy style to write succinct, whimsical poems. Though not parables, the selections in Evolution's Promise apply the same technique of using allegory and metaphor to illustrate spiritual truths and morals in a way that leaves room for the reader to understand these lessons in his or her own way. The author suggests reading three or four poems aloud to yourself each night immediately after savoring your favorite bedtime snack.