Gospel Glamour Required Reading: Thick Face, Black Heart by Chin-Ning Chu
We believe that great leaders are lifelong learners. Reading broadens our perspectives, sharpens our judgment, and encourages thoughtful conversations that help us grow both personally and professionally. As part of our ongoing leadership development initiative, all Gospel Glamour congregants and brand ambassadors are required to read Thick Face, Black Heart by Chin-Ning Chu.
Originally published in 1992, Thick Face, Black Heart explores resilience, confidence, perseverance, negotiation, strategic thinking, and mental toughness. Drawing inspiration from Eastern philosophy and the author’s experiences in business and leadership, Chin-Ning Chu examines how individuals can develop inner strength while navigating adversity, making difficult decisions, and pursuing long-term goals. Throughout the book, she encourages readers to cultivate courage, self-discipline, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
The purpose of this assignment is not to accept every idea presented in the book without question. Instead, participants are encouraged to read critically, evaluate the author’s arguments thoughtfully, and reflect on how the concepts align—or do not align—with their own values, leadership philosophy, and personal experiences. Respectful disagreement and critical analysis are welcomed as part of the learning process.
Please complete the book in its entirety before participating in the scheduled discussion session. As you read, highlight meaningful passages, write notes in the margins or in a journal, and record any questions or insights that arise.
Essay Requirement
Length: Approximately 1,500 words
After finishing the book, write a well-organized essay that thoughtfully responds to the following questions:
Summarize the central message of Thick Face, Black Heart. What do you believe Chin-Ning Chu is trying to teach her readers?
Which three ideas or principles from the book did you find the most valuable? Explain why they resonated with you and how they could be applied in everyday life.
Were there any concepts or arguments that you questioned or disagreed with? Explain your reasoning respectfully and support your response with examples from the text.
How does the book define resilience and mental toughness? Do you agree with that definition? Why or why not?
Describe a personal, academic, professional, or creative experience in which one of the book’s lessons could have helped you navigate a challenge more effectively.
How can resilience, confidence, strategic thinking, and perseverance be balanced with compassion, humility, integrity, honesty, and service to others?
What leadership lessons from the book could strengthen the Gospel Glamour community and help brand ambassadors represent the organization’s mission with excellence?
Conclude by identifying the five lessons you intend to carry forward after completing the book and explain how they will influence your future decisions and relationships.
Your essay should demonstrate careful reading, thoughtful reflection, and critical engagement with the material. Support your ideas with specific references to the book while also incorporating your own experiences and perspectives.
Group Sharing Exercise
Following the completion of the essays, all participants will gather for a collaborative discussion centered on the themes of the book.
Each participant should come prepared to:
Share a passage that had the greatest impact on them and explain why it stood out.
Describe one lesson they believe can positively influence leadership and personal growth.
Discuss one idea they found challenging or controversial and explain their perspective respectfully.
Share one practical habit or action they plan to implement as a result of reading the book.
Offer encouragement and constructive feedback to fellow participants while listening with curiosity and respect.
Closing Reflection
To conclude the session, each participant will share a brief two-minute reflection answering the following question:
“What does resilient leadership mean to you after reading Thick Face, Black Heart, and how will you apply those lessons while serving as a Gospel Glamour congregant and brand ambassador?”
Our hope is that this experience encourages thoughtful dialogue, intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a deeper appreciation for lifelong learning. By engaging with diverse perspectives and reflecting on our own values, we continue to strengthen ourselves and our community with wisdom, integrity, compassion, and purpose.