The greatest gifts in life are the simple ones. I just finished reading the most incredible, simple gift. It's called My Grandfather's Blessings by Rachel Naomi Remen, MD. Dr Remen is a cancer physician who has learned through her life experiences that healing is not just about medicine and science - it's about honoring one's soul journey. My Grandfather's Blessings is a collection of short stories through which Rachel captures the true beauty in life. I am so grateful that this book was placed in my life during a time that I needed it the most. I came across the book in a thrift store a couple weeks ago and I just felt it calling to me. Every day since then I've savored every word on every page. It's one of the greatest, simplest gifts I've ever been given. However, the true giver of this gift is obvious. Rachel is incredible, but ultimately the wisdom shared in her book points to the One and Only Source - a loving Heavenly Father who pours abundant blessings and wisdom upon all His children. We just have to open our eyes and become more familiar with His fingerprints. You never know where you will find Him - even in a thrift store.
Here are a couple photos I snapped this weekend while I was exploring in the middle of nowhere.
I took these pictures this past weekend at Temple Square in Salt Lake City - the headquarters for my church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
I love Alaska! When I step outside into nature, I feel empowered by something greater than myself. I love sharing the abundant gifts of Mother Earth. I am currently training to be an internationally certified Aromatherapist. I believe in the healing power of Mother Earth because it healed me. All the medical doctors were stumped by my condition. They said I had a “grandma body” and there was nothing they could do except prescribe meds. Something inside of me knew there was more. My determination paved a journey on roads less traveled. I found peace in being outside. I found vitality in natural food and nutrition. And I found wisdom in ancient plant medicine, which honors the individual as a whole Being: body, mind, and spirit. My healing journey defines who I am today. I am WHOLE! I feel so blessed to have my healthy body back. It hurts me to see people immobilized by pain, disease, and conditions that the traditional doctors deem incurable. I want to share the things I’ve learned from my healing journey with those who are in search for something more.
Given afterwich Give.