It's not about curing the disease, but healing the life; then the physical benefits come.
Bernie SiegelRead
The doctor I would want for myself or for anyone else I cared about would be one who understands that disease is more than just a clinical entity; it is an experience and a metaphor, with a message that must be listened to.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding disease as more than just a physical condition; it also encompasses emotional and experiential aspects.
Bernie Siegel highlights the idea that disease should not be viewed solely through a clinical lens but rather as a multifaceted experience that carries deeper meanings. It suggests that understanding the emotional and metaphorical implications of illness can lead to more compassionate and effective care, emphasizing the need for doctors to listen to their patients' experiences and emotions.
Themes
DiseaseExperienceMetaphorHealthcareCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
During a health conference, this quote could illustrate the need for holistic approaches in patient care.
More from Bernie Siegel
All quotes →Diseases can be our spiritual flat tires - disruptions in our lives that seem to be disasters at the time but end by redirecting our lives in a meaningful way.
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It is astounding how much the immune system is strengthened by reducing daily mental stress levels with either visualization or meditation. The other great tonic for the immune system is love—loving ourselves as well as others.
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I truly feel the best doctors are ones who are criticized by nurses, patients and family. They do not make excuses and learn from their mistakes.
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Part of my evolution has been to learn how painful most people's childhoods are. They grow up not liking themselves, not loving themselves. Ask people if they were lovable the minute they were born, and watch them sit back and have to think about it. One lady said, 'I suppose so.' That's painful.
Bernie SiegelRead
Being a survivor doesn't mean being strong - it's telling people when you need a meal or a ride, company, whatever. It's paying attention to heart wisdom, feelings, not living a role, but having a unique, authentic life, having something to contribute, finding time to love and laugh. All these things are qualities of survivors.
Bernie SiegelRead
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