The subtitle is “Comfort for the Dying and Those Who Care for Them.” Smith has for many years held the hands of those who were dying and he presents many helpful suggestions how one might be of assistance to the dying and to their caregivers as well. He shows how one can deal with the medical staff when they don’t respect the dying person’s wishes; he addresses the needs of the family and friends who are in denial; he gives a book which can be an ideal companion for the most important journey we all are called to make.

Some of the topics are: dealing with privacy, partnering with physicians, expressing anger, forgiving, deciding how you want to be remembered, putting choices in writing, making life easier for survivors, making a valid and ethical will, distributing your treasures during life, telling your stories, making room for humor, choosing the time to die, embracing the silences, making visitors comfortable, and much more. This book can serve as a sort of journal, providing space for one’s requests, such as five ways I want to be remembered, the five fears I now have, those I need to forgive, what I still want to do before I die, etc. Each chapter ends with a reflective thought, a prayer, and a breath mediation such as: breathe in “Never will God leave me” Breathe out “or abandon me.”

(Thanks to Sr. Irene Hartman, O.P. for this review.)

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