It's about time that someone in Western society breech the taboo related to death and dying. Death isn't a fun subject, by any means, but it is something that all of us will experience. Like it or not, no one can escape losing a loved one and certainly we all have to die, at some point, ourselves.
Mr. Sapienza has masterfully captured the essence of meaning and beauty of the death process. Who knew that death could be such a rewarding experience? In giving care and/or assisting a loved one at the end of life, Mr. Sapienza illustrates how family or friends can enrich the end of life for the dying as well as add purpose and hope for those still living.
Working in a nursing home, I've seen many people die. I've seen family members grieving the loss before their loved on is even gone. I've seen family members unwittingly talk about what a wonderful person WAS. Mr. Sapienza enlightens his readers to be present in the here and now. The truth that so many of us fail to see, is that the dying aren't yet dead, therefore they still ARE wonderful people. Crying and grieving before they depart wastes energy and takes the focus away from the person who is dying and needs loved ones present.
It's not that the author is pointing out what we do wrong in assisting loved ones at the end of life; quite the contrary. Mr. Sapienza has a wealth of experience and compassion that he is sharing to our culture in collectively teaching us how to better care for those we love in their final time of need.
I have lost loved ones, but failed to be present for them in an altruistic capacity, simply because I didn't know how. I wish I had known how to be present for them, rather than focusing on my impending loss. All that accomplished was to rob the dying and myself of endearing, special moments that could have added so much meaning to process of dying.
We cannot implement what we do not know. In this age of self help gurus sharing their wisdom with the masses, "Urgent Whispers" is a must read. If we as a society want to learn how to enrich our lives, our relationships, businesses, etc, why then, should we not take our desire to grow and be better persons in the arena of death as well? Afterall, death is something that will enevitably touch us all. Why not make it better, too?
"Urgent Whispers" is well written and breaks the barrier of fear to unfold a compassionate look at death. Fear breeds ignorance. This book takes the reader beyond the unpleasant and scary thoughts commonly associated with death to reveal a fresh approach in helping our loved ones make the transition to the other side.
I cannot praise this author enough for giving the world such a useful, wonderful tool. Everyone who reads this book will be a better person for it. I can only hope that the persons who will care for me, when my time comes, will have read this book and will follow it closely.
Kudos to Mr. Sapienza and thank you for the epiphany. I hope that everyone who reads your book wil gain as much insight as you have given me.
