Learning to Float: Deconstructing Doctrinal Certainty to Embrace the Mystery of Faith

by Michelle Collins, Michelle Collins

Learning to Float is a life preserver when you find yourself adrift in the midst of your faith journey. When waves of doubt and anxiety threaten to rise above your head, or when you simply find yourself weary of swimming in the midst of unending waters, this book is your buoy. It's the gentle arms of friends holding you up so that you can breathe, even as currents of questions continue to sweep you up and move you along. It's the comforting whisper in your ear when you need it the "It's okay; I've got you. You're not alone."

Matthew J. Distefano knows his theology and philosophy, but far more importantly, he is 100-percent authentic. And as he mediates his story through conversation with Michelle Collins-whose wisdom, compassion, and friendship guide him as he articulates his deconstruction process-readers are bound to see parallels to their own journeys and struggles. 

149 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 5, 2022

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was not exactly what I thought it would be. It’s basically an individual story told through a podcast-style interview. I find people’s stories really valuable, but it just wasn’t what I was expecting based on the subtitle of the book, which made me expect a bit more normal prose rather than interview style.

The authors also talk at the beginning about how deconstruction can mean different things and have different extents. I would say this is more a book for someone who feels like they’re experiencing total deconstruction than someone who has changed, maybe to an extent that would make their family and conservative church nervous, but who still falls firmly in Christianity. I was hoping for a book that would be more helpful in that space. I’ve changed significantly in how much I needed doctrinal certainty and how much I embrace mystery in faith, which is why I liked the subtitle, but the actual story here didn’t connect with my situation as much.

[Jon Turney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t like this book…I love it. The way that Matthew Distefano and Michelle Collins weave this conversation is seamless and thought provoking. I feel like Matthew is telling my story. There are many of us exvangelicals that will see ourselves in this story. But don’t be deceived this is not only a book for those of us who have been through stuff like this. It is for everyone who may know or might know someone that has gone through this journey. Like Matthew has said, the only way out is through. Matthew and Michelle have given us permission to push on through with their honest, concise and meaningful words in this book. This is another spectacular book from both Matthew and Michelle.

[Michael Donahoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be very encouraging and interesting. For anyone going through deconstruction, it feels so good to hear stories of others who are or have gone through the same process. Although we all have a different walk along a similar path, it is very encouraging to know you are not alone. This book is easy to read, uplifting and it held my interest all the way through. I recommend it for anyone who is deconstructing or who has questions about their faith.

[DaCosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right on My Street

Matthew and Michelle touched a lot of places we don't talk about in growing up in Christianity. I found myself at times and reading, saying "That was me."

This book is another great resource for those on the road to deconstruction.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew Distefano and Michelle Collins sit down to discuss deconstruction and reconstruction.
Really enjoyed the discussion format.