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Bereaved Seek Meaning and Purpose
Date of Review: 
Jan.15.2000
Reviewer: 
The Rev. Dr. Richard B. Gilbert, BCC, editor
Source: 
Resources Hotline - The World Pastoral Care Center, Elgin, IL

"'What do we do now?' is a question I have heard all too often in working with the bereaved. Bereaved parents can easily become stuck in the horror and terror of what has happened, bouncing aimlessly as they seek meaning, purpose and a hint of a reason to keep on living. Van Praag has brought us a book of action and a book of love. Bringing together simple tasks, art, poetry, words, objects, sensory provocation, images that guide and guidance that produces images and visions of hope, we have a book that brings healing and hope to grieving parents trying to understand what cannot be understood, to heal when healing seems, at best, impossible. 'How creativity brings relief during the grief process is illustrated by my quest to find solace through keeping a journal, writing poetry and letters, making paper, painting, drawing, crafts, sewing and needle work.' (p.1). This is the heart of this fine book, and it will serve well for individual use, for couples, for friends, for groups and in a therapeutic environment. "