Bestselling author Myss (Sacred Contracts
; Anatomy of the Spirit
) began preparing for this book with two small acts of kindness involving simple assistance with literal baggage. They inspired her to muse, "What really takes place when you respond to someone in need?... the action itself, the lifting of a heavy piece of luggage... may be small. But the energy that is channeled through that action is the high-voltage current of grace." The multiplied strength of the aid she received prompted her to explore stories of like kind. Soliciting through her e-newsletter and Web site, she received over 1,200 responses in six days from people all over the world who had either given or provided some form of grace or assistance. After a cogent introduction, Myss organizes these stories around the "seven classic stages of spiritual development," expressed in the body's seven chakras or energy centers. She devotes chapters to gifts of the earth; financial and creative support; self-esteem; the heart; choice; wisdom; and the Spirit. Chapters conclude with questions to aid life assessment and prayers. The multicultural references throughout strengthen this universal, timely message that can be enjoyed and utilized by people everywhere. One Spirit main selection; BOMC alternate; 14-city author tour. (Sept.)