How to Comfort Those in Pain (ePub)

I have several reasons for writing a book on death and dying. Over the years I have continuously observed well-meaning people say really insensitive things. I have been guilty of it myself. People are not often intentionally cruel when someone has died. It is just that we are bit taught what to say and the painful emotions often get in the way. If you view death as a failure, it makes it even more difficult.
I believe that I am qualified to write this book not so much because of my education as a psychotherapist and that I have a doctorate, but from sitting and holding the hands of people as they die. I have worked with children and adults, people with terminal and life-threatening illnesses, whose who were clinically dead and revived, and as volunteer for hospice. Most importantly, I have buried people I love, friends and family.
My hope is that the reader will be better prepared to talk to those who are dying and the family and with friends left with broken hearts.
I believe that I am able to make the topics of grieving (emotions) and mourning (the public expression of emotions) a bit more palatable for the average individual. If we can be less fearful in talking about death, we are likely to be more compassionate.
My best teachers have been people who were dying. It is through them that I have learned to live. If this book results in making dying a bit easier for just one person, I will consider it success.
- Dr. Frederic B. Tate