Four simple phrases -- "Please forgive me," "I forgive you," "Thank you," and "I love you" -- carry enormous power. In many ways, they contain the most powerful words in our language. These four phrases provide us with a clear path to emotional wellness; they guide us through the thickets of interpersonal difficulties to a conscious way of living that is full of integrity and grace.
In The Four Things That Matter Most, Dr. Ira Byock, an international leader in palliative care, teaches us how to practice these life-affirming words in our day-to-day lives. Too often we assume that the people we love really know we love them. Dr. Byock reveals the value of stating the obvious and provides insights into how we burden ourselves by hanging on to old grudges unconsciously and unnecessarily. He shows us how to avoid living with those awkward silences and uncomfortable issues that distance us from the people we love and erode our sense of well-being and joy. His insights and stories help us to forgive, appreciate, love, and celebrate one another more fully.
The inspiring stories in The Four Things That Matter Most demonstrate the usefulness of the Four Things in a wide range of life situations. They also show that a degree of emotional healing is always possible and that we can experience a sense of wholeness even in the wake of family strife, personal tragedy, divorce, or in the face of death. With practical wisdom and spiritual punch, The Four Things That Matter Most gives us the language and guidance to honor and experience what really matters most in our lives every day.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
This book unveils what must absolutely be said and done in life and in death:
I work with Hospice patients and their families on a regular basis. The book has this incredible grasp on you once you first begin reading it. Once you've finished, it's nearly impossible NOT to implement the FOUR THINGS in both your own life as a living being and in the lives of those you come into contact with; the dying and their families, and even those that surround you everyday. An absolute must read for ALL~whether or not you work in Palliative Care. A book to be treasured, passed on, donated, given... more info
The Four Things:
Awesome book. A must read for everyone who wants to celebrate life and their relationships!
You MUST READ THIS BOOK!:
2 days ago I spent 2 hours with my mother who is sick and not expected to live to much longer. I haven't spent time with her like that for 17 years. Over the years there have been so many misunderstandings, cross words, mean letters, siblings fighting and talking about each other and I honestly thought it was hopeless. I thought I would never see my mother again. Ever. It was a MESS! But, it became obvious with lots of work and support over the years that what I wanted most was to tell my mom... more info
The Four Things That Matter Most: A Book About Living:
I'm studying to be a Geriatric Care Manager and purchased this book to help me understand the needs of the families of the dying. From this book I learned how transformative these four statements can be when facing the terminal illness of a loved one. They are tools for deep communication and for solving long standing problems in relationships- allowing true emotional healing to occur even under the most difficult circumstances. Dr. Byock's message is genius in its simplicity. I really appreciate his... more info
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