This is a book you'll want to read before you need it-so that you will have ideas of what you can do and how you can respond-when you first hear the news."
These are the words author and speaker Lauren Littauer Briggs wrote on September 10th, 2001, while working on her new book, The Art of Helping (Cook Communications / RiverOak Brand, April 2003). In light of the massive tragedy that shook our nation the following day, the statement proved to be as galvanizing as it was prophetic. People were desperate to help those in need, but most were not emotionally equipped to do so.
The Art of Helping touches a felt need we all experience -- wanting to help a hurting person, but not always knowing what to say or do. Both practical and inspirational, this book combines sound tips and suggestions, reference charts summarizing what to say and do in comforting situations, plus poignant personal stories to create a complete guidebook for anyone seeking guidance on how to effectively help a hurting friend or loved one in a time of crisis.
"The most important thing we can do for someone who is going through a difficult time is to let them know we care," says Briggs. "We need to be there for them, spend time with them and write them notes to let them know that we are thinking about them, praying for them and sharing their pain. Realize that their hearts are full of pain and turmoil. We need to be aggressive with our willingness to help. Ask yourself, 'What would I need if I were in a similar situation?'"
The book is divided into four sections of crisis issues to aid the compassionate comforter:
- Personal Crisis: Divorce, Rebellious Child, Elderly parents, Moving, Legal Problems, Depression, Job Change or Loss, Abuse or Violence
- Health Needs: Infertility, Hospital Stay, Surgery, Chronic Illness, Child with Critical Illness, Child with Special Needs or Disabilities, Difficult Decisions
- Loss of a: Pregnancy, Infant, Child, Spouse, Parent, Family Member, Home, Pet, Loss by Suicide
Continued Support: Prayer, Gifts, Recipes
Everyone knows someone suffering from the crisis issues listed above. The Art of Helping is not only a guide book for the comforter, but a challenge-will you be a tangible expression of God's comfort and love in someone's hour of need? Once this book has equipped you with specific guidelines for care, will you put them into practice wherever you are right now? There is an immediate need and an eternal blessing in caring for the needs of others. As Briggs states, "I believe every day I wake up is a gift from God, and that is why my motto is: Every day is a gift! I claim Psalm 118:24 and recite, 'This is the day that the Lord hath made; I will rejoice and be glad in it.'" So come rejoice by ministering to the specific needs of your friends, family, and community and let The Art of Helping transform your gifts into His masterpiece. Reader Endorsements
| Dear Lauren:
I am in charge of the “Community Care Ministries” of The Salvation Army in the Southern Territory, which comprises 15 Southern States and the District of Columbia. We are responsible for the Nursing Home Visitation, Shut-in Ministries, and assisting our volunteer workers in meeting the needs of single mothers, single fathers and elderly who need assistance (grocery shopping, clothes shopping, medicine pick-up, transportation to Dr.’s appointments, etc).
Your book is given to our new seminary graduates as they leave the college and go to their first pastorate. It will assist them in ways they cannot comprehend until they are out in “the field” and doing the work of an evangelist. It is a wonderful reference book and we are grateful that you have been willing to sign their books for them – it makes it an even nicer gift when they know the author has taken the time to sign and give a Scripture reference – it is very much appreciated!
Thank you for being such a wonderful person – you make it easy to know “what to say and do when someone is hurting.”
Love & Prayers,
Marian Faulkner
Lt. Colonel
Territorial Community Care Ministries Secretary &
Associate Secretary for Personnel
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| Lauren,
Just 7 weeks ago, one of our favorite families at church lost their 13 year old son in a tragic car accident. We were all stunned and heart-broken, and for some of us, it was our first visit with a death of this magnitude. Connor was one of the most amazing kids that ever walked this earth, and watching his family deal with this has been so painful. In an attempt to find the right things to say/do, I visited a local Christian bookstore and spent several hours in the section for grief, etc. I looked at a LOT of books, but the one I kept coming back to was your book, The Art of Helping. I read most of it in the store, and then bought it and brought it home. It has become a constant companion! You are insightful and wise, and your advice and suggestions are right on target. I love the ideas, the format, everything about it - it is very well written. In fact, when Connor's dad, Tod, spoke to us this past Sunday for the first time since the accident, many things he said and the dos/donts he shared could have been right from you.
Thank you for opening your heart and the hearts of other families to show us what helps and what doesn't, and ways we can let God work in us and through us to bless people who have sufferred losses. Even today, I'm taking one of those ideas to another friend whose 21 year old son died Saturday - I'm making memory boards for the visitation and the service.
Thank you again for what you've shared - you have touched my heart and my life in a very special way! God bless you as you continue to let God use you to bless those around you!
Blessings,
Stephanie
Texas
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