Ep 5. Unexpected Gifts
- November 13, 2011
In episode 5 of the first season of Super Soul Sunday titled Unexpected Gifts, Oprah sits down with four inspiring guests to discuss the profound impact unexpected gifts have had on their lives.
The first guest is Sue Monk Kidd, author of the bestselling novel The Secret Life of Bees. She discusses how her novel, which was rejected by publishers countless times, was eventually published and went on to become a huge success. Sue shares how the rejection and setbacks she encountered along the way taught her valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Next, Oprah speaks with Emily Giffin, bestselling author of novels such as Something Borrowed and The One and Only. Emily talks about how she unexpectedly found her calling as a writer while working as a corporate litigator. She shares how a personal tragedy led her to reassess her life and ultimately take the leap to pursue her passion for writing.
The third guest, Julie Orringer, author of the critically acclaimed novel The Invisible Bridge, discusses how her unexpected illness and a life-changing encounter with an elderly Holocaust survivor inspired her writing. Julie shares how these experiences influenced her novel and helped her find meaning and purpose in her work.
The final guest is Deirdre Blomfield-Brown, better known as Pema Chodron, a Buddhist nun and author of several books on meditation and mindfulness. Pema discusses how unexpected events, such as the divorce that led her to become a nun, have shaped her life and her teachings. She shares valuable insights on the power of embracing uncertainty and finding peace in the midst of difficult situations.
Throughout the episode, Oprah shares her own perspectives on unexpected gifts and how they have played a role in her life. She encourages viewers to embrace the unexpected and to see life's obstacles as opportunities for growth and transformation.
Overall, episode 5 of Super Soul Sunday offers a thought-provoking discussion on the power of unexpected gifts and how they can lead us to greater self-awareness, purpose, and fulfillment. The guests' stories are deeply inspiring, reminding us all that even in the face of adversity, we have the strength to persevere and find meaning in life's challenges.
