National Network for Equitable Library Service

This is a book of small steps and gentle wisdoms to heal the soul and find your own path to happiness. In Japan, the paper crane is a symbol of peace, hope & healing. It is considered the 'bird of happiness', a mystical and majestic creature that is believed to live for a thousand years, and so according to tradition, if a person were to fold one-thousand paper cranes in a single year, they will be gifted one special wish that would grant long life, healing from illness or injury and eternal happiness. The tradition of folding one-thousand paper cranes is called Senbazuru (Sen = One Thousand / Orizuru = paper crane) These days in an impatient world obsessed with quick fixes and instant gratification, Senbazuru is a radical perspective to slow down and go forth gently, we cannot force our way along the path of discovery, we must simply go tenderly, to wander and explore, with small steps and many steps, experiencing every moment along the way for the better. In this book, renowned yoga and meditation teacher and founder of Just Breathe Michael James Wong brings Senbazuru to life, as an inspiring philosophy that encourages slowing down and taking small and many steps on our own personal path. The book will share Wong's three essential ingredients for finding your happiness; hope, humility and healing and share more gentle wisdoms to inspire us all to a life well lived, alongside ancient Senbazuru proverbs, and practical exercises.