Title: Comfort in Sorrow: Living After the Death of a Loved One
Author: David C. McGee
Publisher: Toplink Publishing, LLC
ISBN: 9781949804850
Pages: 187
Genre: Religion & Spirituality
Reviewed By: Rae C. Bernard

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Whether we like it or not, everyone will experience grief in a loss of everything we place value on, at our best of keeping it held dear to our hearts. Unfortunately, the loss of a loved one is a special kind of grieving process and no two individuals experience it the same. In Comfort in Sorrow, author David C. McGee speaks to his readers in such a calming and compassionate tone in reassurance that it’s okay to feel however it is you feel. It is encouraging to learn there are people that completely understand from a genuine, yet empathetic perspective to inform that everyone will heal. One thing that stood out from the very beginning, is the mention of time and how there’s no right or wrong length of time to overcoming grief. As stated, grief is an individual experience that cannot be classified into groups of people that feel the same way. Although similar and in terms of various initial reactions, there’s no actual comparison in any other aspect such as grief.

After counseling and assisting others with gaining an understanding of grief, many would automatically assume the author has it all figured out. In reality, he’s affected by grief just like everyone else, even though he may seem to have a better understanding of it. While reading, we learn about how others have expressed what they’re feeling and they’re just aiming to manage their emotions effectively. Life continues on with or without our loved ones. It is up to every individual to accept that, take as long as they need to pull through and cherish memories for as long as they live. The loss of a loved one is explained in multiple stages which are broken down a step further than the common five stages of grief.

This book is well-written and fully detailed, providing aides in coping with overwhelming emotions without judgment only genuine concern. The author wants his readers to take time reading these pages and apply the information to their life. One of my favorite parts the author has used is the ability to discuss something and use analogies as a method of clarity. I’ve found that to be very helpful in explaining certain things that could simply be misinterpreted. The suggestions offered such as “It is better to venture out and need to return home than to stay in the house afraid to leave,” is encouraging and warm because it’s letting you know that you are allowed to live, even while grieving, it’s okay.

Overall, I’ve enjoyed reading Comfort in Sorrow because I learned so much in the behavioral process of individuals with dealing with grief. It has opened my eyes and clarified my own understanding that my way of grieving is different in comparison to others and that’s perfectly fine.