Book Description

Like a warm blanket on a chilly night and a compass for a wandering soul, Honoring the Mystery is a collection of inspiring and insightful stories that explore the mystery of death. Reading Honoring the Mystery provides a healing balm all its own. The reader will discover better ways to support themselves and others during this very tender time of transition. This book is for you if you are: supporting someone who is dying; facing your own mortality through illness and a life-limiting prognosis; grieving the death of someone you love; a health professional who works with the dying and bereaved; wanting to learn more about the dying process. This heartfelt book encourages the reader to adapt the attitude of an explorer venturing into unknown realms while listening and absorbing all that is being shared by the dying and bereaved. Barbara Morningstar has lived at the frontier of death both personally-through the death of her husband to cancer-and professionally in the hospice field for more than twenty years. Her hands-on hospice and palliative care experience presents us with compassionate context for some of the more sensitive turning points witnessed during the dying phase of life. Barbara highlights key themes within the transcendent realm of mystery that are important to be aware of when companioning those nearing death or grieving. In turn, these make the journey less clinical, more approachable, less threatening, softer, and more loving. When embraced, these moments can help with healing and aid in a more peaceful passing. Important touch stones that are explored within the chapters are: Metaphoric Language-When approaching death, language can become poetic or metaphoric. Understanding this can lead to greater communication and awareness. Visual-The dying and those who are bereaved speak of loved ones who have passed on coming to greet them; they also speak of an inspirational presence or a bright light that offers guidance and reassurance. Auditory-A range of sounds that are soothing-such as music, wind, or the voice of a loved one-may aid in the journey at hand. Kinesthetic-The sensation of feeling the inspirational presence of a departed loved one can be incredibly comforting. Dreams-A wealth of insight can come from dreams for both the dying and bereaved. Love and Compassion-To hold genuine space with these qualities can aid in a more peaceful death for the one who is facing the end of their physical life. These essential ingredients are similarly much needed by those who are grieving and integrating the loss of a loved one into their lives. Being open to and embracing these transcendent experiences can aid in healing and support a greater comfort for all engaged in the journey at end of the physical life. Please take a peek at the "Look Inside" feature to have a greater understanding of the themes that are explored.