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Book Review: The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
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Book Review: The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
Obama, M. (2022). The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times. National Geographic
Books. ISBN: 0593237463.
They say life is not always smooth sailing. However, the nature of mankind requires one
to develop profound grit, strength and positivity in the face of adversity and more significantly,
to turn the dark moments and experiences into opportunities for personal development and
growth. The book “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times,” authored by the
former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama, is a closely-knit and beautifully interwoven reflection
on personal life struggles thoughtfully penned to empower readers through trying moments such
as during the tumultuous times of COVID-19 pandemic that wreaked havoc globally. This paper
will briefly review the book’s ten thought-provoking chapters, derive meanings and valuable
lessons from each chapter, and, finally, explain how these lessons can be applied in everyday life.
Chapter 1: “The Power of Small”
In the book's first chapter, "The Power of Small," the author recounts the numerous
instances when she had to immerse herself into small but intentional acts and the collective
impacts such seemingly negligible steps had on her life's story. According to Obama (2022), "it
turns out, the smallest of tools can help us sort through the largest of feelings" (p. 23). Michelle
further explains that "sometimes the big stuff become easier to handle when you deliberately put
something small alongside it" (p.33).
This chapter presents two critical takeaways: (1) A constant reminder that small steps,
when incrementally and deliberately taken, can lead to substantial changes and (2) that we must
be appreciative of the small progresses we make in life and understand that sustainable changes
are a product of gradual steps in life. Henceforth, I plan to break the big tasks, especially
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academic goals, into small, manageable chores by creating a daily task list and focusing on
consistency.
Chapter 2: Decoding Fear
This chapter sets the stage for readers to embrace the existence of fear, understand its
complex nature, and beware of its significant role as a protective mechanism on the one hand and
a barrier to personal growth on the other. According to Obama (2022), when faced with fear, one
needs to constantly ask, "Am I afraid because I'm in actual danger, or its it simply because I'm
staring newness in the face?" (p.50). This phrase not only highlights the dual nature of fear but
also offers a framework for understanding fear as a paralyzing force.
The primary takeaway from Chapter 2 "Decoding Fear", is the understanding that fear is
universally existent and that it needs to be embraced through accurate naming. I understood that
fear can be used to catalyze action rather than to always perceive it as an insurmountable
obstacle to change and progress. My plan is to understand how best to catalyze action and spur
positive change by first harnessing fear and consequently utilizing it to achieve personal goals.
Chapter 3: Starting Kind
In this chapter, the author introduces kindness not just as a mere act of treating others
with empathy but as a profound approach to life with lifelong impacts and a proactive choice
available to everyone. According to the author, "when a person greets us with unfettered gladness
or trusts our ability to succeed, it can have a lasting, lifting sort of effects" (Obama, 2022. p. 68).
This phrase underscores the collective essence of kindness as a way to spread positivity, foster
compassion, and shape cohesive communities.
Chapter 3, "Starting Kind", has numerous takeaways. Most importantly, I learned that the
small gestures of kindness are what we need to set the foundation for positive relationships and
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interactions. It was also surprising to learn that kindness can be the bridge that connects the
virtues of courage to the strength needed to achieve everyday life goals. I plan on incorporating
the almost unnoticed gestures of kindness highlighted in my everyday life to create a culture of
empathy and support, especially towards fellow students and those close to me.
Chapter 4: I Am Seen
Chapter four of the book can be collectively summarized by the quote, "it can be easy to
presume that your differentness is the most visible part of you, the thing people perceive first and
remember longest. Sometimes, this is absolutely true, and other times it's not." (Obama, 2022. p.
79). Through the lenses of her personal anecdotes, the author explains the profound human need
to be recognized and seen, the worries of being different, and most importantly, the
empowerment derived from being constantly validated, especially in developing a sense of
belonging and self-worth.
Chapter four highlights the sense of shared humanity through being recognized and
validated. Another key takeaway is empowerment, especially by recognizing individuals from
marginalized groups. After reading the chapter, I feel more empowered to make conscious efforts
to acknowledge the actions of others through practices such as active listening and showing
empathy.
Chapter 5: My Kitchen Table
In this chapter, Michelle uses a kitchen table to metaphorically explain the need to create
a safe and supportive space where they can reflect on their life’s journey and converse freely. The
kitchen table can be a supportive community or family members one can rely on for comfort or
connection. According to Obama (2022), “Not only do you have to say I am curious about you to
someone who might be a friend, but you should also invest in that curiosity.” This phrase
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underscores the need to be choosy with the type of connection one develops and the willingness
to review such connection to ensure that the "Kitchen Table" is a safe haven.
Throughout Chapter Five, "My Kitchen Table", the key takeaways resonate around
creating supportive spaces and also ensuring such spaces are devoid of distraction and
disturbances. Additionally, I also learned that one must constantly strengthen the connection and
building resilience through togetherness. Since I have developed my own "Kitchen Table," I plan
to apply the takeaways to maintain my social life by promoting open dialogue and mutual
support—two qualities that have been missing in my connections.
Chapter 6: Partnering Well
In this particular chapter, the author narrows down to shared values, mutual respect, and
the need for understanding among couples by drawing from her partnership with President
Barrack Obama. She explains that "you don't want to settle down with someone because you're
looking for a breadwinner, or a caregiver, or a parent for your kids" She further adds that instead,
"find someone who will do the work with you, not for you, contributing in all fronts and in all
ways."
The key takeaway from this chapter is to find someone with whom you can develop a
foundation of trust. It also highlights the willingness for mutual support and engaging in open
communication. Reflecting on my journey as a student, I can apply the readings to offer
emotional support and create a culture of being available for partners in group projects and most
importantly, to respect the diverse perspectives of peers.
Chapter 7: Meet My Mom
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This chapter brings to light the daughter-mother engagement between Michelle Obama
and her mother, the Late Marian Robinson. The author reflects on the key characteristics she
derives from her mother, the hardship she saw her mother go through, the qualities instilled in
her from a tender age, and how adequately she was prepared for future mother roles.
Collectively, this chapter profoundly analyzes mother-to-daughter engagement and prepares a
platform for learning about the dynamics of such relationships and its direct influence on
mothers-to-be.
“Meet My Mom” equally has numerous takeaways, beginning from the need to provide
unconditional support and stability, especially to a girl child, to instilling wisdom and the spirit
of resilience in children. Most importantly, it brings to the fore the need to prepare children to be
able to stand on their own, especially after attaining the age of majority. The readings can be
applied to defining the dynamics of parent-child engagement.
Chapter 8: The Whole Us
In chapter 8, "The Whole Us", the author explains the behind-the-scene support
influential and successful people in the society get, especially from those they closely relate with.
According to Obama (2012), "Nobody becomes successful all in their own." She admits that
“many of us, myself included, are propped up by the quiet and often unsung efforts of others.”
(p.169). The two phrases affirm the seemingly unnoticed support successful people get,
especially from the “Kitchen Table” explained in Chapter 6.
"The Whole Us" has numerous key takeaways. But the most profound one is the need to
recognize the efforts of those who prop up you. On the flip side, it underscores the urgent need to
offer unconditional support to those in need without seeking recognition or validation. Both
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principles can be applied in a real-life setting literally as they are to set a foundation for mutual
support among fellow learners.
Chapter 9: The Armor We Wear
The "armor," in Chapter 9 signifies the values and competencies successful people
incorporates into their everyday activities to navigate the complexities of life. The author alludes
that her two most critical armours are "preparedness and confidence". According to Obama
(2022), “Preparedness becomes a hedge against panic. And panic is what will lead you into
disaster” (p. 192). The author further recounts many instances she had to prepare for the
unknown by adorning the armour of confidence, especially whenever called upon to give
speeches.
The key takeaways from “The Armor We Wear” includes being observant and adaptable,
refining personal competencies, and maintaining confidence regardless of the situation. As a
student, I plan to wear “the armors” mentioned in this chapter, especially when faced with
stressful circumstances or situations that require me to adapt quickly.
Chapter 10: Going High
The last chapter of the book, “Going High” is based on the principle of self-reflection and
carefully managing one’s impulses before reacting or responding. Michelle explains that “Going
high is always a test, as I see it,” and that sometimes you need to ask, “but wait, have you seen
the world lately? How much worse can things get? Where is the energy to fight?” (Obama 2022,
p. 210).
The key takeaway from “Going High” is always to take a pause and reflect on the
repercussions of any action before taking one. As someone who struggle with managing my rage,
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the principles in this chapter are enormously helpful since they will guide me through adopting
restrain and horning my ability to filter through emotions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the book “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” by
Michelle Obama offers practical steps on developing resilience, authenticity, and confidence
when navigating life’s hurdles. Since it reflects on author’s personal journey, it uplifts the author
as a beacon light of hope, especially to the girl child.
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References
Obama, M. (2022). The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times. National Geographic
Books. ISBN: 0593237463.
