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| of a therapist or a support group. Commit yourself to living long and well. Seek to understand who you are and Why you are here. This will give you a sense of identity as well as peace of mind. Believe that you have a purpose in life and go about seeking that purpose with passion, allowing your heart to guide the way. Learn to forgive and allow room for laughter and joy in your day. Once you have a sense of purpose, let it be guided by your heart and your spirit and pursue it without fear or doubt. Most important, spend time in meditation and prayer, help others, build relationships, show compassion and humility, be a peacemaker, and offer love. Shoring your love is profoundly healing. |
| Remember that the mind, spirit, and body are inextricably interrelated. The mind affects the brain, and the brain affects all physiological systems of the body. |
| We are spiritual creatures. I believe that this life is but a beginning to another life, and death is a transformation into that life. I deeply believe that a good herbalist understands that the clinical practice of herbal medicine requires a balance between science and art. I myself try to maintain this balance in my practice. As I am thinking about which remedy or remedies I might suggest and blend for an individual, I look to my spirit for help and discernment. I also add faith into the mix when I explain my personal practice of herbal and nutritional medicine. |
| I end this chapter with a wonderful text written by St. John of Kronstadt, a Russian Orthodox priest and teacher who was beloved by the people of Russia for his unwavering faith and compassion for the human struggle to attain spirituality. He died in 1908 and was canonized as a saint in 1964. These words of wisdom are especially helpful for those who need healing. |
| You are accustomed to look upon your body as upon your own inalienable property, but that is quite wrong, became your body is God's temple. Afflictions are a great teacher . . . [they] cleanse the soul. My brother, bear your illness bravely, and do not be despondent, but on the contrary, rejoice if you can in your illness ... This sickness of yours may be the opportunity of a lifetime. Listen to God while you are on your back recuperating. Much good can come out of this experience that you might not gain in any other way. We know that for those who love God all things work together for good. Let there come to you out of this illness a blessing instead of a breakdown. Do not let this sickness get your spirit down. While lying on your bed, look up instead of down. Look into yourself and see how helpless you are without God. |
| Finally, whatever your choices, as this anonymous saying counsels: Do the best you can and don't worry about the rest. Angels do no more. |
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