Gift of Pain, The
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Paul Brand, the eloquent voice of hand surgery
  • Engrossing and powerful!
  • A Truly Great Book
  • Read and rejoice in this book!
  • An absolute must read and share! I won't be the same.
Gift of Pain, The
Paul Brand , and Philip Yancey
Manufacturer: Zondervan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

MedicalMedical | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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GeneralGeneral | Yancey, Philip | ( Y ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
PaperbackPaperback | Yancey, Philip | ( Y ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Basic ScienceBasic Science | Medicine | Subjects | Books | Anatomy | Biochemistry | Embryology | General | Genetics | Histology | Immunology | Microbiology | Nosology | Pathophysiology | Physiology
GeneralGeneral | Medicine | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0310221447

Book Description

A WORLD WITHOUT PAIN?

Can such a place exist? It not only can—it does. But it’s no utopia. It’s a colony for leprosy patients: a world where people literally feel no pain, and reap horrifying consequences.

His work with leprosy patients in India and the United States convinced Dr. Paul Brand that pain truly is one of God’s great gifts to us. In this inspiring story of his fifty-year career as a healer, Dr. Brand probes the mystery of pain and reveals its importance. As an indicator that lets us know something is wrong, pain has a value that becomes clearest in its absence.

The Gift of Pain looks at what pain is and why we need it. Together, the renowned surgeon and award-winning writer Philip Yancey shed fresh light on a gift that none of us want and none of us can do without.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Paul Brand, the eloquent voice of hand surgery.......2007-05-31

I am a hand therapist, an occupational therapist who specializes in hand and upper extremity conditions and injuries. Paul Brand was an amazing man, an inspiring teacher and writer. Of course Philip Yancey coauthored this book, but this is Brand's own voice. It reads much like his professional writing, with clear and vivid analogies to explain difficult concepts. I never had the privilege of working with him, but I was lucky enough to spend time with him at various conferences and courses. He was a deeply spiritual man who spoke with both authority and humility, and possessed a sparkling sense of humor.

The book does not by any means cover Dr. Brand's entire career, but sheds a very bright light on the groundbreaking work he did with Hansen's disease (leprosy) patients. In the US, he moved to the Carville, Louisiana Hansen's disease center and continued to publish his writing, and to teach and guide hand surgeons and hand therapists. He was made an honorary member of the American Society of Hand Therapists, one of many honors showered on him throughout his distinguished career.

Please read this book. It will inspire you and give you fascinating food for thought.

5 out of 5 stars Engrossing and powerful!.......2007-04-23

I have not quite finished reading this book (though I've skimmed the last chapters and know some of their content), but I am so excited about it that I could not wait to post this review! Be forewarned: those reviewers who used the phrases "can't put it down" and "the dishes will stack up" and "a page-turner" are not exaggerating. Every day I look forward to the time when I can open this book again and read, and I have lost not a few hours of sleep staying up late to read just a little more.

Paul Brand's account, expressed in Yancey's superb writing, of his investigation of the causes of leprosy and its devastating effects reads like a detective story, with pieces of the puzzle falling into place one by one. The stories of successes and failures are always placed in the context of the lives of real people. Brand's reflections on pain are never heavy-handed, always instructive, sometimes challenging, often humbling and awe-provoking.

If you work in the medical field, as I do, I cannot urge you strongly enough to read this book!! It should be required reading in every medical school, nursing school and PT/OT school. I have already started to re-tune my approach to patients with pain a little, and I have begun rethinking my own pain of various kinds.

Paul Brand was a compassionate genius of the highest order. I've never heard that he won a Nobel Prize for medicine or the Nobel Peace prize, but he should have. He applied his genius with sacrificial energy, enthusiasm, humility and humanity to helping "the least of these".

I wish I had read this book sooner. I recommend it more highly than I can express.


5 out of 5 stars A Truly Great Book.......2007-02-19

This was the first book that introduced me to the writing of Philip Yancey. He is a truly great writer and this story of Dr. Brand's life is exceptional. I suffer with chronic pain and have for many years. I was profoundly impacted by the wisdom of this book and found that reading it has made a healing difference in how I view my pain. Not only that, the tale of Dr. Brand's life is fascinating. I never knew much at all about leprosy and thought it was a disease of the past.

I think the title can deter some people from reading it. I remember hearing about it when I wasn't in chronic pain and it definitely did not sound like a subject I wanted to dwell on. For some reason, though, I purchased it and put it up on a shelf for years. One day I happened on it--when I was ready to read it.

Do miss this. The human body and the God who designed it is truly amazing.

5 out of 5 stars Read and rejoice in this book!.......2006-12-16

Dr. Paul Brand's "The Gift of Pain" (with Philip Yancey co-authoring) is probably my favorite-ever book. It reads like a mystery, a biography and a story-teller's yarn all at the same time. Be careful - once you pick this book up you won't want to put it down; the dishes will pile up in the sink and you'll stay up later than you should, reading by flashlight if necessary. Apart from the Bible, I can't recall any other book that has been so uplifting to my soul. It is the only book that, after reading a library copy, I bought not one but two copies: one to keep and one to loan out to anyone I can encourage to read it. The Brand/Yancey team also wrote two other excellent works ("In His Image" and "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"), and there is a biography of Dr. Brand entitled "Ten Fingers for God." All well worth reading, but "Pain" is by far the best. My only regret is not having met Dr. Brand personally. If I had to choose one man (apart from Jesus himself) to point out to my son and tell him, "Grow up to be like that man," it would be Dr. Paul Brand. Do your soul a favor; read this book!

5 out of 5 stars An absolute must read and share! I won't be the same........2006-08-09

"The Gift of Pain" was recommended to me by my sister-in-law who read it while in a book club with a nurse. I have now recommended it to everyone that I know! It's a rare find to read a non-fiction PAGE-TURNER that not only edifies you intellectually but absolutely changes the way you view your body and health, in general. There are a few parts that would turn a weak stomach so get ready, but just get through those and keep reading. This book will make you laugh, cry, and absolutely open your heart and change you - emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. Don't miss it!
The Portable Miracle Ball Method
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • the perfect pain reducer for lazy people (-:
  • Buy It!
  • It surprised me!
  • The Portable Miracle Ball Method
  • Worth Every Penny....It Really, Really Works!
The Portable Miracle Ball Method
Elaine Petrone
Manufacturer: Workman Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0761143823

Book Description

Introducing The Portable Miracle Ball, a take-it-anywhere-and-everywhere kit ideal for business travelers and commuters or anyone who spends long hours away from home. Rather than two balls, these exercises require only one, which, at 3 inches in diameter, packs easily and is discreet to use in public. The fully illustrated book is filled with simple exercises that work miracles the minute you settle into your hotel room or board a plane.

Stuck in a long line at the bank? Here are techniques to stretch the muscles and reduce tension right on the spot (and no, you won’t look silly). Feet worn out after a day at the museum? The author’s soothing exercises targeting the insteps and legs will have you up and moving again in no time. And for anyone who experiences discomfort when sitting for long periods, the book features exercises to be performed at your desk, on a plane, or even in a restaurant. A chapter on “Emergency Measures” provides quick relief for back spasms, waking up with extreme stiffness, and other acute problems. The author discusses proper breathing technique, ball placement, and the importance of listening to one’s own body when performing the movements.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars the perfect pain reducer for lazy people (-:.......2007-08-27

I haven't even read the parts the other consumers are talking about that has to do with exercises without the ball...
Being the impatient & lazy person I am, I skipped right to the part that shows me how to use the balls for the part of me that hurts the most...low back...and I am giving 5 stars for the ease of use, and also the pain relief! I have arthritis,endometriosis, scoliosis, fibromyalgia and many more physical issues that cause extreme pain. I do see a chiropractor every week, but for in between visits, this Ms. Petrone's system really saves me from needing too much medication!
Also,it really relaxes me and my blood pressure. I'd give it 5 stars for that!
I cannot believe that these simple little balls and laying on them can do so much for pain relief.
With the level of pain I deal with every day, I thought only something drastic would help me. Who knew it could be so easy?
I will say, it will never CURE my pain..but what it does is to RELIEVE it until the next time it rears it's ugly head. Well worth it, though!
I lent them to my chiropractor and she never gave them back because she loves it too..luckily I had bought 2 sets.

5 out of 5 stars Buy It!.......2007-07-03

I recently developed mild Scoliosis from carrying a really heavy purse on my shoulders for years and can't afford to go to the Chiropractor every day as he suggested. My left foot bends in weird directions, my upper and lower back were hurting and I couldn't sit up straight. The Doctors offered absolutely no advice or suggestions. I was really feeling desperate as I knew this would keep getting worse. Then I found this book and decided to just try the exercises that Elaine Petrone says to do every day without the ball. These help you to align each section of the body while breathing deeply which I guess relaxes the muscles. She explains that you have to balance all sections of the body as each influences all the others. The exercises are EXTREMELY simple and perfect for lazy people like me. What a difference! I haven't even tried the exercises with the Ball yet and I'm recommending this to you! On some days it feels like I have close to normal levels of strength back in my left arm and leg, the twinging pain in my hips hasn't come back. I sure wish I could take a class from this woman.

I'm really surprised that there aren't tons of excellent reviews on this site. I've danced in the past and have trained on weights so I understand the importance of the breathing exercises for stretching so pay strict attention to everything she says. Thanks Elaine!

5 out of 5 stars It surprised me!.......2007-06-17

After reading through the book, I wasn't sure that I would take the time necessary to find results. However, I tried it before I fell asleep one evening. I expected shoulder blade pain from painting the day before, placed the ball between my shoulder blades, relaxed, fell asleep (no, Ms. Petrone did not say to sleep on the ball), and awoke in the morning with the ball next to me and no knots in my upper back! For that alone, this ball is worth it!

5 out of 5 stars The Portable Miracle Ball Method.......2007-04-11

Elaine's products are wonderful. I have the portable method and I also have the regular Miracle Ball. I believe that both of these, which come with books have a lot of valuable information, that this should be sold as a set. I have an older DVD, which is good for a visual, then when you read the books, you have a better idea of how to work with the balls.
Have sent this as a gift to my daughter and she was impressed.
Have lent them to someone that could hardly walk and she was so impressed as the ball hits the pressure points with such ease. JMS

5 out of 5 stars Worth Every Penny....It Really, Really Works!.......2007-01-21

I purchased this on vacation and was thrilled to discover it truly is miraculous. I suffer from TMJ and back problems, both of which were relieved. Anyone suffering from TMJ, spinal pain (cervical/thoracic/lumbar, etc may want to try this. I went to a dentist, who said he could cure my TMJ in six months for $4600.00 (yes, $4600.00!) After only one session with the miracle ball, 85% of my pain had subsided. You can use it in the car too. My only criticism is that the ball reeks of that gross plastic stank. However if you put it in a clean sock, it helps defer the smell. I look forward to using the original miracle balls. Check it out.
When We Hurt : Prayer, Preparation & Hope for Life's Pain (Yancey, Phillip)
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • A good little gift book to those in pain and suffering. However,
  • Yancey Needs to Understand Christ and What He Requires
When We Hurt : Prayer, Preparation & Hope for Life's Pain (Yancey, Phillip)
Philip Yancey
Manufacturer: Inspirio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

FaithFaith | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0310810582

Book Description

Whether our hurt is physical, emotional, or mental, in the end it is all the same- painful. Pain is a gift; not a thought we often have, but without pain we would never know when to move our hand from a hot stove or be able to empathize with friends and family that are going through so much. This gift book helps us to better understand pain and how to handle it in our daily lives. As a gift for someone going through chemotherapy or a couple that lost a child, this book allows them to experience the pain that they are feeling without guilt or regret- but instead as the gift it truly is.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A good little gift book to those in pain and suffering. However, .......2007-03-10

if you want to get the best from Philip Yancey and Paul Brand, which I did when I was suffering real bad three years ago, please buy and read "Where is God when it hurt" instead, though both of them carry the same core message, that: Even God Himself did not explain to Job why Job had suffered, so the author just focused his discussion on the "meaning" or "to what end" of suffering. He had covered many topics, like the clear distinction between pain and suffering, the biological necessity of pain, how well intended consolation or even gift cards of christians can do more harm than good, the importance of hope as a pain killer, the notion of "the wounded healer" first preached by Nouven that God enables christians to help others in future through their suffering, the death of Christ as evidence that God knows our suffering and cares.

As usual in my reviews, below please find some of my favorite passages for your reference.

Dr. Henry K Beecher of the Harvard Medical School coined the term "Anzio effect" to describe what he observed among 215 casualties from the Anzio beachhead in WWII. Only one in four soldiers with serious injuries (fractures, amputations, penetrated chests or cerebrums) asked for morphine, though it was freely available....Beecher, an anesthesiologists, contrasted the soldiers' reactions to what he had seen in private practice, where 80% of patients recovering from surgical wounds begged for morphine or other narcotics. He concluded, "There is no simple direct relationship between the wound per se and the pain experienced....In the wounded soldier the response to injury was relief, thankfulness at his escape alive from the battlefield, even euphoria; to the civilian, his major surgery was a depressing, calamitous event." pg33

How happy a person is depends upon the depth of his gratitude. - John Miller pg 48

Though perseverance does not come from our power, yet it comes within our power. - St. Francis de Sales pg 73

My pain is unavoidable. But my misery is optional. - Tim Hansel pg 83

3 out of 5 stars Yancey Needs to Understand Christ and What He Requires.......2006-05-18

Often, books that address hurts in life is about me, myself, and moi. And this kind of pop Christianity has killed America's Christianity. When difficulties come, it's not about what we can do for Christ? It's about what we can do for ourselves? This is not the attitude of the Bible. Yancey needs to go back to the Bible and humble himself.
How Do You Know He's Real?: Celebrity Reflections on True Life Experiences with God
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Review: How Do You Know He's Real?
  • Celebrities Share Their Christian Faith
  • Celebrities talk about God in their life
  • COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN!!! Terrific Read!
  • The book of a lifetime!
How Do You Know He's Real?: Celebrity Reflections on True Life Experiences with God

Manufacturer: Destiny Image Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

FaithFaith | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0768423325

Book Description

Between the covers of this book are testimonies from Christian role models from the worlds of film, sports, and music. The stories are real and powerful, and are presented in a way that believers and seekers alike will find compelling.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Review: How Do You Know He's Real?.......2007-06-14

In the book, How Do You Know He's Real, you'll get an inside look into the spiritual lives of 34 celebrities. Hagberg has compiled testimonies ranging from Kirk Cameron to Rudy Sarzo (former bass player for Ozzy Osbourne). Each story is remarkably different and it's amazing to read how God has worked in the lives of each of these well-known people.

5 out of 5 stars Celebrities Share Their Christian Faith.......2007-05-31



The author has collected very readable stories telling how celebrities have become Christians, and they share their low points and their joys here. This is a welcome peek into the lives of well known people who typically are more secretive.
Ricky Skaggs, Kirk Cameron, Gloria Gaynor, Bethel Johnson (34 people in all) tell about their struggles and their early days as new Christians.
Billy Ray Cyrus tells of singing in his grandpa's Pentecostal church when he was 4, and includes the touching lyrics to the song he wrote "The other side."
Jackie (Jacklyn) Zeman, star of General Hospital, advises that when you are at a crossroads "cry out to God and ask for His guidance."
Al Kasha's story resonated with me; this Academy Award winning songwriter overcame agoraphobia, and talks about how Hollywood is a tough place for a Jew who came to Christ, and how he started a Hollywood Bible study group.
There are stories here for anyone to enjoy and find spirit lifting.

4 out of 5 stars Celebrities talk about God in their life.......2007-04-27

(Hagberg has written a companion book with the same title, subtitled God Unplugged)

How Do You Know He's Real? is a collection of celebrity essays about God acting in their lives. The contributors include athletes, musicians, and actors. Their stories often follow a familiar pattern of fame leading to drugs and alcohol before hitting bottom and being turned around by an encounter with God. That's not to say the accounts are all stock and cliched, but rather that God meets each person in their need--and for celebrities that need will be similar. And many of the tales include growing up in stable Christian homes, but still needing to make personal decisions about God and Christ and how that decision impacted their careers.

The stories are collected alphabetically but Hagberg has provided a topic finder so a reader battling discouragement or frustration can find offerings from Billy Ray Cyrus, Nancy Stafford, Zorro, Gary Burghoff or John Schneider.

Each essay begins with a picture and short biography of the contributor, listing their accomplishments. Following the selection is God's Road Map, a few sentences about the issues raised by the author, with Bible verses for teaching and encouragement.

The essays themselves are as varied as the contributors. Some of them read as if they were written to be given as speeches. Several sound like the writer could be sitting at your kitchen table, chatting over the coffee pot. All of them are honest and share from their heart how God has acted in their life and how they know He's real.

Reading the accounts of God acting in both miraculous and mundane ways reminds us that no matter what a person does for a living, each of us are created beings who need a loving Savior and merciful God.

Armchair Interviews says: Up close and personal stories from celebrities.

5 out of 5 stars COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN!!! Terrific Read!.......2006-05-18

I received this book as a gift and once I started, I couldn't put it down. Ms Hagberg has captured the beliefs of these well known and respected celebrities, sports figures, and musicians. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in the series and can't wait to give copies of this one to all my friends. Order 2!

5 out of 5 stars The book of a lifetime!.......2006-04-18

This is a book that you will no doubt want to share with everyone you know! (I certainly am!) It was so hard to put the book down - but worth it - just to extend the time and joy of reading it! GREAT content! GREAT author! I can't wait to read the next books in the series!
Pain: The Gift Nobody Wants
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • High praise for a refreshing insight.
  • Interesting and insightful reading
  • Very Insightful
  • Biographical reflections on the two edged nature of pain
Pain: The Gift Nobody Wants
Philip Yancey , and Paul Brand
Manufacturer: DIANE Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Pain MedicinePain Medicine | Pharmacology | Medicine | Subjects | Books
Pain MedicinePain Medicine | Pharmacology | Medical | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Yancey, Philip | ( Y ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0788163728

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars High praise for a refreshing insight........1999-09-04

As a clinician who works with chronic pain, I found Brand's book to be truly inspiring. People who get negatively obsessed with (non malignant) physical discomfort face the challenge of reconfiguring their perceptions about pain. Dr. Brand not only lays the groundwork for changing the context and meaning of pain - He does a good job of exploring the modern day paradox that more (ie overindulgent, materialistic, obsessive pursuit of creature comforts) is often less (in terms of true happiness). A great read!

4 out of 5 stars Interesting and insightful reading.......1999-05-07

The book gives a very insightful look into why we have pain and why it's important for maintaining good health. I found it easy to read (I almost couldn't put it down!) and very informative. I think it's a must-read for anyone in the medical profession or anyone who suffers reccurent pain of any kind.

3 out of 5 stars Very Insightful.......1998-07-08

Although a bit eccentric, this is a must read for all of you out there who want a new perspective on life. Still very interesting even if you just want a good read. I couldn't put it down the first time I read it. Some comments are a bit off-the-wall, but all in all a very good book.

5 out of 5 stars Biographical reflections on the two edged nature of pain.......1998-02-04

You don't have to be a physician, philosopher, or theologian to enjoy reading Paul Brand and Philip Yancey's thoughtful comments about pain, the gift nobody wants. Most of us view pain as our nemesis, something to be avoided or at least minimized, and yet our lives depend upon its presence in ways we seldom stop to think about. We need to feel pain, for example, when we handle something too hot, lest we burn ourselves, we need muscular pain to let us know if we are building our bodies up or tearing them down, and we need the painful discomfort of dryness to cause us to blink our eyes and keep them moist. Whether you are in perfect health or suffering physically, this book is quite useful in helping us appreciate - and cope with - something that is so essential, yet noxious. This book draws richly from the well of common daily life, with many of the stories and examples coming from Dr. Brand's experiences as an English missionary surgeon in India. The writing style is fluent so that reading it is both easy and enjoyable. The approach is ecumenical, so people of any philosophical or religious persuasion should not feel uncomfortable with the author's background. I recommend this book highly.
Pain - the Gift Nobody Wants: Memoirs of the World's Leading Leprosy Surgeon
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Should be a must-read
Pain - the Gift Nobody Wants: Memoirs of the World's Leading Leprosy Surgeon
Paul Brand , and Philip Yancey
Manufacturer: HarperCollins Publishers Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Public HealthPublic Health | Administration & Policy | Medicine | Subjects | Books
PlasticPlastic | Surgery | Medicine | Medical | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Yancey, Philip | ( Y ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
PaperbackPaperback | Yancey, Philip | ( Y ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0551028149

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Should be a must-read.......2004-03-25

If you are interested in being a doctor, or if you are suffering
from pain this book can be invaluable.
I am neither a doctor, nor suffering from pain, but I thoroughly
enjoyed the autobiography of this surgeon.
I can't recommend this book enough.
The Covenant / Pain- The Gift Nobody Wants / Vet in the Vestry / The Saint's and Angel's Song (Guideposts Condensed Books, Vol 14 1995)
Average customer rating: Not rated
    The Covenant / Pain- The Gift Nobody Wants / Vet in the Vestry / The Saint's and Angel's Song (Guideposts Condensed Books, Vol 14 1995)

    Manufacturer: Guideposts
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover
    ASIN: B000CPAQH0

    Product Description

    Four great reading books
    Prayerstarters in Times of Pain or Illness (Prayerstarters)
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • A must for someone who needs guidance during prayer!!!
    Prayerstarters in Times of Pain or Illness (Prayerstarters)
    Alaric Lewis
    Manufacturer: One Caring Place
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

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    ASIN: 0870293273

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars A must for someone who needs guidance during prayer!!!.......2001-03-12

    This may be a small book, but in my eyes it is a GIANT!! The last seven months have been some of the most trying months of my life and my faith increased so much and so did my prayer life. As the trials have continued I have found myself wondering where God is and as I read this book it made me realize that God had not moved away from me, but that I had moved away from God. Father Alaric has such a wonderful way of helping me get back to the prayer life that I had with the aid of his prayer starters. He helped me to realize that it was okay to be angry at God and that this is natural and to admit it to Him, after all He is big enough to handle it. I feel that my prayer life will continue to improve as I use this book as a tool in my prayer life. God is in control and He is waiting there to help love and guide through these troubled times. Thank you Father Alaric for your wonderful words of wisdom. Please continue to bless us through your God given gift of words!!
    The Gift of Pain
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Pain has a Positive Purpose
    • MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW
    • spiritual growth
    The Gift of Pain
    Barbara Altemus
    Manufacturer: Perigee Trade
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Paperback

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    1. Touched by the Extraordinary Touched by the Extraordinary

    ASIN: 0399527788
    Release Date: 2003-09-02

    Book Description

    In this touching and supportive book, a redefinition of traditional perceptions of pain is interwoven with the experiences of world-renowned visionaries, healers, artists, and peacemakers whose intensely personal moments of darkness led to spiritual growth. Nobel Peace Prize winner Rigoberta Menchu Tum discusses her trauma in being exiled from Guatemala; Goldie Hawn explains the panic attacks she went through early in her career; Iyanla Vanzant discusses her creative process when writing; and Deepak Chopra shares his moments of intense disconnection throughout his life.

    Contributors also include:

    € Isabel Allende
    € Butch Artichoker
    € Chief Arvol Looking Horse
    € Margaret Ayers
    € Rev. Michael Beckwith
    € Blaze Bonpane
    € Joan Borysenko
    € Barbara Brennan
    € Rickie Byars
    € Jack Canfield
    € Larry Dossey
    € John Funmaker
    € Dick Gregory
    € Alaine Haubert
    € Dr. Gerald Jampolsky
    € Dr. Roy Nakai
    € Kahu O Te Range
    € Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi
    € Martin Sheen
    € Jana Shiloh
    € Steven Simon
    € Frieda Tomosoa

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Pain has a Positive Purpose.......2005-05-12

    As a master certified life coach and bestselling author, I've been studying the purpose of pain for years and "The Gift of Pain" is a resource you'll be happy to have on hand for yourself or a friend.

    The author understands--through her own life experiences and through those celebrities she has interviewed--that problems and pain are inevitable, but suffering is optional. We have all experienced loss of some kind and if you are someone who is willing to let pain be a catalyst for change, you will surely benefit from this significant book.

    It's inspiring to read about others who have overcome adversity and have made peace with pain. I particularly enjoyed reading about the wisdom of Martin Sheen, Iyanla Vanzant, and Jack Canfield. When you can transform your pain into joy, you too will be able to report the benefits of living without the baggage of the past. And your success will far outweigh any initial discomfort.

    We are truly blessed to have Barbara Altemus share her gifts with the world in "The Gift of Pain!" Thanks so much.
    Barbara McRae, MCC

    5 out of 5 stars MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW.......2004-04-27

    I believe we have all experienced pain in our lives. We may try to dodge it, ignore it, bury it, but alas it still seems to creep into our everyday existence. I have heard all the old additives that without pain we would not know we were hurt, of course I would rather just not know myself, but that is not the way of life.
    In Ms. Altemus's book she tells her story of pain and shares how she turned that pain into a positive aspect in her life. She also incorporates stories from such people as Goldie Hawn, Martin Sheen and many others. They share tales of their pain and how it became a turning point in their lives. Each one tells of the force that they clung to and how it helped them to overcome. Whether it be God, a person, an idea or a belief, and they share how they used this focal point to turn their pain into a positive.
    If you are hurting, or have been hurt, and haven't we all; you will find encouragement in the words of this book. The stories of those who have not given into the pain but have used it to transform their lives will help you to overcome your own pain and lead you to a path of healing.
    Shirley Johnson/Senior Reviewer
    MidWest Book Review
    Denise's Pieces

    5 out of 5 stars spiritual growth.......2003-09-23

    This book is phenomenal! The author shows us how to heal the right way. Through out life we are tought to hide our pain. This book gives us the courage and tools to fix what hurts. Not only does it do that, it encourages spirituality and happiness. I recommend this book to all age groups.
    Adversity & Pain: The Gifts Nobody Wants
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Adversity & Pain: The Gifts Nobody Wants
      Os Hillman
      Manufacturer: Aslan Group
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

      InspirationalInspirational | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
      ASIN: 1888582022

      Book Description

      When a crisis enters our life how do we respond? Os Hillman was a successful advertising agency executive who's world quickly changed when his marriage, business and personal finances all crashed at the same time. One day things were status quo, the next day he was facing a life that questioned the reality of God. What He learned in the process will help many make sense of unexpected events that God brings into our lives.

      Books:

      1. God in the Alley: Being and Seeing Jesus in a Broken World
      2. Healing Anxiety and Depression
      3. History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
      4. History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
      5. Hope Rising: Stories from the Ranch of Rescued Dreams
      6. How to Care for Aging Parents
      7. I Am Legend
      8. If I'm So Smart, Why Can't I Lose Weight?: Tools to Get it Done
      9. Introducing Character Animation with Blender
      10. King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine

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