Mystic Whispers is an anthology of poetic compositions by Dr. K.J.S. “Sunny” Anand, reflecting an unbridled fascination with nature, all beings, and the myriad expressions of Life – each replete with its unique beauty, exuberance, and vitality! Whispers from childhood, youth, and maturity adorn these pages – randomly cascading, competing, culminating in life’s spiritual journey towards its source. The flow and cadence of these verses dances imperceptibly along the faint, half-forgotten strains of childhood and youth, clothed in the imagery of the ever-present Now, often colored with an agonized yearning for greater fulfillment, deeper connection, and a more profound understanding of Life. While providing intensive care to critically ill children teetering between life and death, Dr. Anand learns to celebrate the complexity and vibrance of life, the tragedy of death, strung between the whims and vagaries of daily life. These seemingly superficial imperfections of the human condition can be wiped away to reveal the mystifying source of love and compassion, profound serendipity and harmony, and the perfect timing of all that happens. His optimism and hope creep into many of these poems, sparking a spirit of generosity, a cry of abundance, and gratitude for the underlying love that makes life and everything else possible.
Dr. K.J.S. “Sunny” Anand is an award-winning physician, research scientist, and child health advocate with a career-long dedication to improving the lives of all infants and children. He received a medical degree from University of Indore (India), was a Rhodes Scholar at University of Oxford (UK) where he received a D.Phil. degree, followed by post-doctoral fellowships and clinical training at Harvard Medical School (Boston MA). Dr. Anand’s early research led to the discovery of pain and stress in newborns and older infants, thus transforming the practices of anesthesia and pain management in children. His award-winning research was reported by CNN, BBC, MSNBC, ABC News, Fox News, PBS, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, The Times of London, The Daily Mail, Hindustan Times, and numerous other media outlets. It was also profiled in several books including Ghosts from the Nursery, Scared Sick, Infant Memory, Mama, and others. While practicing as an ICU physician for 40+ years, Dr. Anand also helped to launch charitable health clinics and hospitals providing free healthcare to uninsured, underprivileged, and displaced populations. He has published over 300 peer-reviewed scientific papers, 9 books/journal issues, while serving on advisory councils for the National Institutes of Health, Food & Drug Administration, American Board of Pediatrics, and other professional organizations. Although a poet from his early childhood, Mystic Whispers is his first literary contribution.
