I was asked to review a new book The Art of Comforting. I choose to review this book because I would like to be better comforter.
My husband fell at work 10 years ago and was not able to return to a job he loved. He was then diagnosed with MS in 2009. I don’t feel like I’ve been a great comforter to him and I was hoping this might help. I’m not always empathic.
So what did I learn? A lot, and I’m not even done with the book!
Some of my favorites:
Even on hectic days, by pausing for a few minutes to listen, we can be a comforting presence for someone in distress.
Speak in a lower voice, evenly. You can be emphatic and firm with a soft voice, too.
Say, “I”m sorry you are going through this.”
And, there is so much more. I haven’t even finished the whole book, but will continue to read it.
Why did Val Walker write this book? She was suffering from personal loses and no one was around to comfort her. Not co-workers or doctors, the people who should be there for her. So Val went in search of comforters and wanted to share with others, The Art of Comforting.
In The Art of Comforting, Val Walker reminds us of the importance of making real connections and helps us best support the people we love. An experienced rehabilitation counselor, Walker consulted 13 top professionals from a variety of fields who use comforting skills professionally every day. Her advice will help readers in a variety of situations, and is especially helpful to parents – answering questions like…
• How can we get our children to communicate about their feelings offline?
• How can we best explain hardship and death to our children?
• Which creative activities can we do when kids need comfort and stress relief?
• How do our American cultural norms prevent us from being good comforters?
• What should we say – and not say – to upset family members?
I would reccommend this book to anyone. There are good listening tips, gentle words to say and write and so much more.
Find more online at http://www.artofcomforting.com/.
This book retails for $15.95
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This is a Mama Buzz review. I received the above book for review purposes. This did not affect my opinions, my opinions are my own.
I couldn't have found this at a more perfect time. We had a friend lose both of his hands yesterday after being electrocuted at work. He had the surgery today actually. My mom and husband helped him get the job where it happened and they are feeling guilty as well. He has a young wife and young kids so it is a really hard time for them and it is only just beginning. I am going to go look for this book right now for them. Thank you so very much.
lewalk(at)hotmail(dot)com
I'm really happy to read your review. I was seriously considering reviewing this myself but didn't have the time. It looks like a book I might need to purchase. i understand somewhat what you are going through because my mom was diagnosed with MS a few years back. Thanks for sharing and thanks for the review!
i got interested with the book now that I've read your review. thanks.
=) missing your visits
I was very pleased to read your review. I would like to be a better comforter, and I would also like my husband to be a better comforter to me. Maybe I will get this book for us both to read! We have a lot of stresses in our life right now.