This book clearly engages the discussion of death and dying with new energy and clear wisdom drawn from the rich ancient traditions and experiences of those who have walked this path. The references to several "books of dying" highlight the thread and legacy passed on through all cultures and faith traditions regarding the meaning and transition related to death and dying.

The discussion regarding spiritual pain and the expression of this pain through questions of meaning, relationship, forgiveness, and hope has helped to deepen my ability to care for and listen actively to patients in my role as a hospice chaplain.

The highlight for me was the stories of patients and families who have "lived" this encounter with death. Richard Groves' ability to tell these important stories in relationship to the ancient wisdom of the enneagram brings clarity as to how we all appraoch life and death.

This book is a wonderful resource for patients, family members, those who are working with the dying, those in professional caregiver roles, and those wanting to learn.

I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to understand the process of death as a peaceful transition from this life to the next. There is so much to learn from the dying that is confusion but this book takes you through all the experiences the dying have that is not of this world. You are truly in touch with the spiritual life when you walk the journey with someone who is dying. This book helps to make this experience a blessing and a privilege to be a part of. I would recommend this book to anyone who is a caregiver or has older parents or close to someone who is terminal. This book has also helped my not fear by own death. It is definately worth taking the time to read Richard Groves experiences.