Finding Meaning

The Sixth Stage of Grief

By: David Kessler

Narrated by: David Kessler

In this groundbreaking and “poignant” (Los Angeles Times) book, David Kessler — praised for his work by Maria Shriver, Marianne Williamson, and Mother Teresa — journeys beyond the classic five stages to discover a sixth stage: meaning.

In 1969, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross first identified the stages of dying in her transformative book On Death and Dying. Decades later, she and David Kessler wrote the classic On Grief and Grieving, introducing the stages of grief with the same transformative pragmatism and compassion. Now, based on hard-earned personal experiences, as well as knowledge and wisdom gained through decades of work with the grieving, Kessler introduces a critical sixth stage: meaning.

Kessler’s insight is both professional and intensely personal. His journey with grief began when, as a child, he witnessed a mass shooting at the same time his mother was dying. For most of his life, Kessler taught physicians, nurses, counselors, police, and first responders about end of life, trauma, and grief, as well as leading talks and retreats for those experiencing grief. Despite his knowledge, his life was upended by the sudden death of his 21-year-old son.

How does the grief expert handle such a tragic loss? He knew he had to find a way through this unexpected, devastating loss, a way that would honor his son. That, ultimately, was the sixth stage of grief - meaning. In Finding Meaning, Kessler shares the insights, collective wisdom, and powerful tools that will help those experiencing loss.

“Beautiful, tender, and wise” (Katy Butler, author of The Art of Dying Well), Finding Meaning is “an excellent addition to grief literature that helps pave the way for steps toward healing” (School Library Journal).

©2019 David Kessler (P)2019 Simon & Schuster

Beautiful

Sensitive, empathic and affirming. A container for pain as well as a boost for a positive future

excelente!

Me encantó!! Lo recomiendo mucho, Tanto si tienes una perdida como si quieres entender y empatizar con alguien que está en duelo.

This book deeply resonated with the oncologist reader.

During a long career as a practicing oncologist I frequently dealt with death and dying. I have comforted hundreds of grieving people who have sustained losses.this book is a must read for those individuals grieving the loss of a family member, friend, or an acquaintance.

wow!

Once again David Kessler brings love and care into such a difficult subject. Anyone experiencing loss will benefit from this book!

Finding Meaning

My Mom pass away recently. This book was very helpful. I read Kuber Ross book on grief over 30 years ago. This is a welcome addition to the Kuber Ross.

excellent, powerful and Healing

This was an excellent read. I will indeed use tools and strategies in my practice. Finding meaning is definitely the best approach to keep the love alive.

Meaning makes all the difference

I really enjoyed this book. I also found it extremely helpful in how I am dealing with my own grief and how to find meaning.

Helped me in ways I didn't expect

I was grieving the loss of my best friend and partner who was the best dog on the planet. not only did this help but it helped me communicate with and support other friends at their time of need

His personal experience

He was very descriptive in his experience with losses; he told it so well I could visualize everything he was telling .

Must read! So comforting

Out of all the grief books I read or listened to, this was by far the best and most helpful one!