KEY POINTS:
The book I love most is ...
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. More than just a book, this provides its reader with a potentially life-altering course in self-discovery and creative empowerment. Through a series of exercises, such as taking yourself on regular "artist's dates" to places of beauty, it works on "creativity as a spiritual practice". I discovered this book while at art school in Sydney. After reading it I moved to the beach and spent all my spare time painting, writing and taking photographs of anything that caught my eye. It was a magical time and it's a magical book.
The book I'm reading right now ...
The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins. I'm an absolute sceptic when it comes to religion. Although I do have a spiritual life, I personally don't feel you need religion to be close to God (or whatever your version of God is). Dawkins has eloquently affirmed my beliefs with thoroughly researched ideas and well-developed opinions.
The book I'd like to read next is ...
Speeches That Changed the World, published by Pier 9. I was at Borders recently with my inspirational flatmate, naturopath Dr Damian Kristof of TV3's Downsize Me, and we both got really excited when we stumbled across this title. The cover says it contains "stories and transcripts of the moments that made history". I think it's important to pay homage to those who have contributed to humanity to the extent many the subjects of this book have, and in doing so remind ourselves of the change that can be effected by a single voice. When you think about it, just one person with great conviction and courage can open up the eyes, ears and hearts of millions. It's exciting to think that each of us has the same potential to truly make a difference.
