Successful Businessman Drops Out, Tunes In and Turns On (to concerns for the planet)

Businessman turned society drop-out, shares truths in novel form. Based on Native American prophecy and his awareness of where we’re headed, author and activist, Stephen Paul, pens “Hollow Bones." Set in the not-so-distant future where the world is on a collision course with nature, Paul’s troubled hero searches out an alternative way to live. With themes that mirror his own life, Paul resurfaces with some sound advice so we can all make a difference.

With all the news about changing weather patterns, polluted waters, shrinking ice caps, threats of contaminated food, job outsourcing, and kids plugged in 24/7, it can be overwhelming to think about what we can do to change our course and protect ourselves, our future, and that of the planet. We can’t take it all on at once, but we can make changes now.

Stephen Paul was a successful businessman who went into a years-long self-imposed retreat to reevaluate his life (recently highlighted in a full-page feature in the Deseret Morning News as a person who makes a positive contribution to the community, June 9, 2007, http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/1%2C1249%2C660227950%2C00.html).

Paul's retreat brought him to a clearer understanding about the issues facing the world—leading him to write a number of articles on living simply, harmoniously, and respectfully (articles available to download or view on his website www.circledancer.com).

Next, inspired by a 1993 address to the United Nations in New York by a Native American elder and by his newfound understanding, Stephen Paul penned his first work of fiction, "Hollow Bones," to express his concern for where the planet is heading and to illuminate Native American prophecy. Within the context of one man’s journey from fear and skepticism to spiritual awakening and optimism, "Hollow Bones" is a cautionary tale, but unlike most, Paul’s book offers hope and a practical model for the next generation as well as our own.

In "Hollow Bones," community members are guided by a common directive to "do no harm." As individuals, we can choose to apply those same seven principles anywhere, any time.

7 Guiding Principles for Harmonious Living

1) accepting and respecting fellow community members

2) keeping the good of the entire community in mind

3) communicating issues directly and resolving them immediately

4) conducting affairs with honesty and integrity

5) honoring and treating the earth with respect

6) applying industry, creativity, and inspiration to all undertakings

7) sharing what is learned with others on the planet

Having attained literary success with his HarperCollins/HarperSanFrancisco-published inspirational books, Illuminations: Visions for Change, Growth, and Self-Acceptance; Inneractions: Visions to Bring Your Inner and Outer Worlds into Harmony; and In Love: Visions for Growth and Harmony in Relationship; Paul released "Hollow Bones" in March 2007.

Residing in Salt Lake City, Paul recently came out of seclusion to speak and write about how individuals can prepare to ride the inevitable waves of change. It takes willingness. It takes integrity. And it takes commitment. But living simply, harmoniously, and respectfully is being part of the solution.