dignity

How can we recognize self-worth independent of our performance?

"Christian tradition refers to this inherent dignity...universally shared in equal portions by all...Human worth lies in relatedness to God."

- Martin Luther King, Jr., "The Ethical Demands for Integration"(1962)

readings

Henri Nouwen, "Life of the Beloved" (1992)
Kerry Temple, “What’s Best for Them” (2016)

refractor

Eric Sims is Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Economics. Since 2009, he has taught classes on macroeconomics and monetary policy at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He is a recipient of the Sheedy Excellence in Teaching Award, the highest teaching honor in the College of Arts and Letters. His research focuses on business cycles and monetary and fiscal policies. He is a father to three daughters, an active parishioner at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in South Bend, a passionate Notre Dame sports fan, and an avid golfer.

co-curricular events

Beloved Lakeside Escape w/ Moreau Peer Leaders

Sept 26

Embrace the gift of your Belovedness. Inspired by the insights of Henri Nouwen, the Beloved Lakeside Escape is a morning of reflection that offers a sacred space to step away from the noise of "doing" and settle into the truth of being the beloved. Learn more

Dangers of Digital Dignity w/ Prof. Arner and Moreau Peer Leaders

Sept 27

Bring your best smile. You're being rated... Join your classmates and Moreau Peer Leaders in viewing the majority of the Black Mirror episode called “Nosedive” and then discuss the risks of basing one’s worth on the social approval of others. Learn more

Journey Retreat w/ Campus Ministry

Oct 2-3

Slow down, take a breath, and connect. The Journey Retreat is a 24-hour retreat designed for first-year students seeking a break from the busyness of campus life. It's an opportunity to slow down, take a deep breath, and reconnect with what matters most.

In recognition of the time commitment involved, participation in the retreat satisfies the requirement for two co-curricular events. Learn more

beloved life life: writing a letter of gratitude

Due in class by session 5: dignity.

Life Labs are engaging, interpersonal activities related to course topics that you complete on your own. You and your classmates will complete these activities during the same time period, enabling a shared communal experience.

This Life Lab is an opportunity to recall that you are beloved. By writing a letter of gratitude, you may see your own worth reflected through the eyes of someone who has loved you.

beloved life life: writing a letter of gratitude

Additional Resources

Listen to a sermon by Henri Nouwen on “being the beloved” of God.

Watch a documentary about the life and writings of Henri Nouwen.

Listen to a dialogue with writer William Deresiewicz (who is cited in Kerry Temple’s article) addressing the anxiety that afflicts many students at elite schools.

Read the U.S. Surgeon General’s report on Protecting Youth Mental Health or listen to an interview in which Vivek Murthy addresses healing amidst the ongoing mental health crisis.