Earthshine

Like the moon, we humans shine more brightly in some situations than in others. Sometimes, we have barely a sliver of glimmer to give. Other times we're in full glow and brighten every encounter. There are also instances when, like a new moon, it seems we have only darkness to express. During those moments, it's wondrous to suddenly notice someone else's light illuminating our being. The transformative impact is like that of earthshine, which occurs when the dark part of the moon is softly lit by sunlight reflecting off the Earth. In these contemplative essays, McBride chronicles experiences of being touched, shined, and uplifted by the light of twelve distinct individuals from contrasting corners of the world. They are stories of struggle, courage, curiosity, resilience, redemption, compassion and insight - stories that prompt one to reflect upon choices, priorities and what each of us brings to the feast of Life.

PRAISE FOR EARTHSHINE -- from the back of the book:

Bunny McBride is a humanist in the best sense of the word. Everyone tells us it's good to be generous, empathetic, imaginative, and so on. But by showing us how those qualities look and feel when they're embodied by living, breathing humans, she provides an inspiring road map for our own journey. DEAN SLUYTER, author of The Dharma Bum's Guide to Western Literature and Natural Meditation, Nautilus Silver & Gold Medals.

Earthshine illuminates the mysterious power of loving connection. Transcendent and transformative, McBride's heartfelt essays offer a gentle guide-to-living for everyone who seeks to restore positive relationships, cultivate the best of their inner potentials, and emanate light within darkness. Necessary parables for our times. LUCAS BESSIRE, author of Running Out, National Book Award Finalist.

These essays are an unforgettable study of life from various perspectives. Deeply personal, heartbreaking, beautifully told and rich with soul searching, they are sparks that kindle the fires of hope, gratitude, and appreciation. When life hands you a shattering blow, writes McBride, "Like Jacob, hold on to the angel of that experience until it blesses you." DONNA LORING, Penobscot elder and author of In the Shadow of the Eagle.