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The process of writing is a powerful one, and at a time when loss can take us on a near, head-on collision with defeat-- simply expressing the words, can be transforming. After reading this book, I found it enriched my understanding of the process of life, of death, and of all things impermanent. Lasting Words, is an incredible gift to be received. Kindle Edition Verified Purchase.
There is something special about a book that is visually appealing and deals with a deeply moving subject. This is the case with Lasting Words. Based on her work with people at the end of life, Claire has given us an extraordinary gift.
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It provides a means to reflect and share memories when illness strikes and time is limited to the near horizon. Accompanied by exquisite photographs by Marnie Samuelson, the book gently guides the reader through steps to explore meaning and wishes at the close of life. The subject is close to my heart.
I have lost two loved ones to cancer in the last decade and a half and know how important this writing and communication can be. When serious illness impacts your family, you want to have something to hold onto. It is a blessing to have something written by someone you've lost. It can offer solace through the most difficult moments of grieving and be a guide for moving forward while holding their memory. Lasting Words gives families a means for healing and growth in the midst of painful loss.
Claire Willis's book,Lasting Words,needs to be in the library of every hospital chaplains office, on the bookshelves of every retirement community and in the hands of each of us as we pass the 70 year mark, or before. I will use it as I prepare a workshop on 'aging'.
Lasting Words: A Guide to Finding Meaning Toward the Close of Life
Each chapter states its intent with clarity and leads us gently through a choice of ways to express ourselves. I was especially impressed with the lack of 'shoulds' and the ease with which Ms WIllis directs our path, with stories, beautiful photographs, and poetry. It is a pleasure simply to read it, let alone use it as a tool for self expression toward the close of life.
As someone who works with patients in all phases of their illnesses, this book offers an accessible and unique structure. This book doesn't try to prove anything, which I truly appreciate. This book is one I can use in my own life as well as with patients. The photographs are beautiful and I would like to have seen even more of them in this skillfully written and artfully curated book.
One person found this helpful. I love this book. Lasting Words stands out from the crowd of books written for or about the final phase of life because it invites the reader to explore what gives most meaning to his or her journey. It is a clear-eyed and compassionate guide for doing 'soul work.
This book is a key resource for legacy writing. Lasting Words is a gem. I mentioned it to an Episcopal priest friend and she immediately jumped on the title, how compelling it is. I told her to jump on the book!
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Claire has really done a beautiful job of guiding the reader through the writing and living and dying process -- so attuned, sensitive, and hopeful. Not only is it wise, but it is beautifully produced -- a book to give as a gift -- with memorable poems and photographs. It is sensitively written, creatively crafted and yet, appropriately practical. She maintains a small private practice in Brookline, Massachusetts.
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Marnie Crawford Samuelson Illustrations. Faced with the ultimate challenge of life-confronting your death-how would you want to be remembered? Are there stories you want to tell? Experiences you want to relay? Explanations about how you felt and why? Maybe you wish to ensure that future generations know your family lore. Perhaps you seek meaning and purpose and don't know how to access them.
It's likely that you Faced with the ultimate challenge of life-confronting your death-how would you want to be remembered? It's likely that you seek comfort and strength. But at the same time a deep desire to heal unresolved issues may unsettle you. And reaching for a spiritual connection may be the path you want to find.
Paperback , pages. To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up. To ask other readers questions about Lasting Words , please sign up. Lists with This Book. This book is not yet featured on Listopia. Mar 20, Julie rated it it was amazing Recommends it for: Anyone struggling with mortality. This beautiful book carries gentleness without being bogged down by sentimentality. It offers ways we can choose to takes steps in the journey of our lives - without being presumptuous about what any of us "should" do.
The poetry is beautiful - resting spots for my heart - like lily pads for dragon flies.
Lasting words : A guide to finding meaning toward the close of life - Details - Trove
Mar 20, Otis Kriegel rated it it was amazing. This is a terrific book for anyone dealing with sadness and fear towards the end of their life or for those with loved ones who are nearing the end. The book is so easy to read and is filled with truly helpful, thoughtful exercises to guide one through this process. Apr 02, Bree Hodges rated it it was amazing Shelves: