This book gathers the ideas of some of the most progressive thinking people on the planet in a series of short essays. Some of the writers you've heard of. And the ones you haven't likely will give you some great ideas to think about.

The book reveals some interesting themes that are emerging in our collective consciousness. Gabriel Cousens, MD writes of "holiness in daily life". "A Sense of the Sacred in the Modern World" is the title of Prince Charles essay. It sure is encouraging to here the heir to the throne of England talk this way.

There are essays about community, including one by Naomi Judd. The empowerment of women is explored. Ideas of how medicine and healing might be practiced in the future are explored. They suggest a synthesis of many healing modalities; many of the ideas will be new to us in the west, such as the powerful qigong healing technique of Zhi Gang Sha, M.D.

Another theme that emerges is "moving beyond". John Grey discusses how we can get stuck in anger at injustices and world events that we observe. But by forgiving those we might tend to hate, we can move forward and be effective at bringing about the changes we seek in the world. Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh writes about a very Christian concept, loving our enemies.

The book is a treasure trove of cutting edge thinking. Many of the writers are leaders in their fields, and the book will serve as a jumping off point for the reader to learn more. Web addresses are provided for many of the authors' sites.

If you ever find yourself feeling a sense of hopelessness about events in the world, this book is essential reading for you. It is full of hope, from visionaries who are inviting us to help create the path.