A BIG PICTURE OF PURPOSE

"What allows us, as human beings, to psychologically survive life on earth, with all of its pain, drama, and challenges, is a sense of purpose and meaning."

-- Barbara De Angelis

Hi Friends,

I have just read Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor's book, My Stroke of Insight, which shares her story of experiencing and healing from a stroke that severely incapacitated the left hemisphere of her brain.

Her book offers powerful insights into the role the brain plays in how we experience life. It's a fascinating read but today, I want to focus on the big picture of the purpose of her life.

From a young age, Jill was curious about how the brain works because her brother was schizophrenic. She chose to study neuroanatomy and, on graduation, moved into brain research.

Then, at 37, life brings her a stroke so she could do her own real life research. When she became aware that she was suffering a stroke, she said, "Wow, this is so cool... how many scientists have the opportunity to study their own brain function and mental deterioration from the inside out?"

Indeed. What a perfect example of purpose in action. What priceless gifts she has and is still giving to stroke patients, caregivers (both family and friends and the medical community) and all of us in understanding the differences between the two brain hemispheres.

But what a road she has travelled! Her physical trauma was severe. She had to re-learn everything: how to crawl then walk, how to speak and read. It took her 8 years to put her life back together -- in a new way. Gruelling? I can hardly fathom the depth of her courage, strength and determination.

What does her story say to me? It inspires me to trust that there's higher wisdom guiding our lives. It invites me to release judgment, as what may seem like tragedy may at the same time be rich with blessings. It speaks to me of the surprising means by which we gain new perspectives that support our evolution. All such precious gifts... Thank you, Jill.

~ Patrice

"In times of great crisis, why is it that a few run towards the cry to face it, while many simply flee? It is because of the meaning they find inside themselves."

-- Rumi

"Our prayers are answered not when we are given what we ask, but when we are challenged to be what we can be."

-- Morris Adler