Zero-Sum Healing?

Irresponsible talk makes a real mess of things,

    but a reliable reporter is a healing presence.

Proverbs 13:17The Message (MSG) 

Recently, I attended a local “Schwartz Center Rounds” (See website) and heard a wonderful story of healing.  The audience of caregivers left the room energized!   Add to that the experience of reading the novel by Jason Mott, The Wonder of All Things, and it was a good week. 

The plot of the novel hinges on the protagonist, Ava, becoming progressively sicker each time someone is healed by her miraculous power.  It is a wonderfully written story that helps us all see our hopes and fears. 

Novels and movies that explore the nature of healing are wonderful ways of addressing the limits of our lives.  It is a challenge to hear the stories and relate them to our own lives and vocations. 

For me, the experiences of being part of a healing story is that of inspiration that is more like the Schwartz Center Rounds.   We were all able to clearly see the difference between healing and cure!   For me, real healing is not a zero-sum experience! 

Marvin

References

http://www.theschwartzcenter.org/supporting-caregivers/schwartz-center-rounds

Mott, J. (2014). The Wonder of All Things. Mira

Short list of other favorite healing stories and movies:

Cassella, C. (2010). Healer: A Novel. Simon & Schuster.

Patchett, A. (2011). State of Wonder HarperCollins.

Verghese, A. (2010). Cutting for Stone (1st ed.). Vintage Book

Lourdes (2009) Movie  

Sympathy for Delicious (2010) Movie