I've found some great insight reading work by Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D. She is involved with holistic healing and works specifically with people dealing with cancer. Besides sharing inspiring stories and wisdom from her years as a practicing M.D. and as a woman, she also had a great bit about some Buddhist ideas that resonated with me today.
She talked about the idea of realting people to an acorn. The acorn only has meaning and is what it is becuase of its potential to grow into a great oak. Anything with a similar shape or feel would not be an acorn without this potential. The acorn also yearns to achieve its potential and become the great tree. People are similar in that we have a natural tendency toward wholeness and our potential to achieve that. When we look within at our essential nature rather than outside infulences, we naturally know and yearn to do what is right for us to acheive wholeness.
This idea rings so true in my experience. I really think that we can heal ourselves and achieve wellness and contentment when we look within and just do what feels right for us. Reading Rachel's books has caused me to think about how I am helping myself and others heal and become whole. If anyone is looking for an easy and possibly inspiring read, check her out.
Additionally, does anyone have any favorite books that have influenced them? I finally get to read for pleasure rather than just textbooks and I intend to take full advantage!!