Incredible article Ash! You start off saying you are not a professional I healthcare; but personally I believe it's topics like these that are the secrets to our true well-being. I really think you've hit the nail on the head with your thoughts on reflection. As I sit here overseas, I can really identify with your concept of 'the world as a playground' and the questions you've posed for experience-integrated reflection. Your thoughts on pivotal people also struck a note with me since it really does seem odd the way we meet the people we need to meet and the impact they have on us. A connection that I see from your article is the inter-relatedness between experience and pivotal people. The more new experiences we take on, the more pivotal people enter our lives. Although, like you said, it's often very few that have the power to inspire us; I think back and reflect on how different the direction of my life could have been if I take away one of my past experiences, and the people met through it. I also very much agree with what Jenny has mentioned above. I would even further it to say the challenge also lies in how to create the environment for proper reflection. We are bombarded by so many distractions in our everyday life; a busy lifestyle; unlimited opportunities for impulse. To take the time out to reflect, is often thought of as a 'radical new age' thing to do these days. As for your question, I believe the self can be used in many different ways by different people, so there is definitely not one answer. Whatever the method chosen though, I feel that there must lie one common value… to lead by example. Whether it be helping someone reflect; giving advice; providing an opportunity for experience; it is vital that we ourselves ensure we are able to find value in being on the receiving end of such assistance. Once again, incredible writing! I believe it prompts us to find a way to 'Redefine Modernity' and create a culture where reflection & continuous learning are the 'new cool!' Not only am I proud to be part of the same 'neighborhood' as you… but the same bloodline as well! Ryan Coelho, Engineers Without Borders Canada, Overseas Volunteer (Ghana) ryanaroundtheworld.blogspot.com