It's not about curing the disease, but healing the life; then the physical benefits come.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Survivorship involves vulnerability and authenticity, not just strength.
This quote emphasizes that being a survivor is not solely about demonstrating strength or resilience; rather, it involves being open about one's needs and emotions. It highlights the importance of seeking support, embracing one's true self, and cultivating meaningful relationships, which are essential qualities for thriving in life after hardship.
Themes
SurvivorAuthenticityVulnerabilitySupportQuality Of Life
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about resilience and personal strength.
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.
Bernie SiegelRead
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.
Bernie SiegelRead
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
Getting well is not the only goal. Even more important is learning to live without fear, to be at peace with life and ultimately death.
Bernie SiegelRead
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