Compassion in Action: "The Art of Helping"
Puts Flesh on Good Intentions
"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
Read how The Art of Helping helped this reader
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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.
Click here to order an autographed copy of Lauren's book!
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