Gifted healer Joan Borysenko believes that the wounds we suffer - and heal from - can be gateways to a transformation of the spirit, one that not only nourishes our souls but blesses us with the potential to help our world. In this enlightening book, Dr. Borysenko goes beyond psychology as currently practiced and taps a deeper vein of healing. She reveals to us the power of spiritual optimism, a philosophy that views life crises as opportunities for personal growth and spiritual homecoming. Drawing on her own experiences with tragedy and illness, as well as on anecdotes from her therapy patients, the author combines scientific knowledge with wisdom and insight to show how the most devastating events can initiate a fruitful search for meaning; how wrestling with the demons of pain, strife, and illness can lead us to discover our wholeness; and how meditation, prayer, and heightened awareness can serve as shining beacons during the proverbial "dark night of the soul. " These are the times when the soul is on fire, fueled by torment and despair. Yet this same soul burns with an inner flame that can consume old beliefs and negative opinions, allowing a new soul to be born. Thus our darkest moments can lead to spiritual resurrection, bringing us closer to our true hearts ... and to the heart of healing. Getting there, however, is never easy. "Dark nights of the soul" are perilous emotional voyages through stormy seas of suffering. Here the terrain is shadowy and home seems far, far away; here, most of us need a light to navigate by. "Fire in the Soul" is that light, an inspiring and knowing guide to spiritual safe haven in times of loss and pain. Its insight will help you shed self-blame, heal childhood wounds, and gain strength from adversity so that you can find the goodness that is everywhere and feel the love that lights our universe. This book also features a practical resource section listing books, tapes, and addresses of helpful individuals and organizations. One of its most comforting chapters contains stories, poems, and quotations to help restore and revitalize spiritual optimism. And that is the first step to leading a life filled with faith, love, and courage.