Helpful Score: 3
I singled out this book as I felt I'd come to a fork in the road of my life. I could choose to be bitter after the premature birth and death of my son or I could try to seek out better ways to live my now very different life. I started this book dubious of its content. I expected to be lectured. Instead I found myself reading with an open mouth; shocked at how accurately my loss was explained. It was as if this wonderfully gifted rabbi had invisibly witnessed the events of my life, the times when my relatives would say the dumbest and most cruel comments. Instead of being talked at, I found I was reading a book a kind friend had written just for me. I am not religious or spiritual, I guess you could say I'm confused, however his book has opened my eyes to a different, kinder religion than the one I had always felt was judgemental.
I have since purchased the anniversary edition and this book will be one of my most treasured possessions. If you feel life has let you down, if you feel every door that was once open has been slammed in your face, if you feel alone in your sorrow and have nowhere else to turn for relief, this book is for you. It won't make the pain go away, but it will make the pain and sorrow less personal. You will no longer feel `why me', you will just realize that it is what it is and that in itself will make your pain easier to cope with. This is certainly how I feel upon it's ending, I hope you experience the same comforts.
I have since purchased the anniversary edition and this book will be one of my most treasured possessions. If you feel life has let you down, if you feel every door that was once open has been slammed in your face, if you feel alone in your sorrow and have nowhere else to turn for relief, this book is for you. It won't make the pain go away, but it will make the pain and sorrow less personal. You will no longer feel `why me', you will just realize that it is what it is and that in itself will make your pain easier to cope with. This is certainly how I feel upon it's ending, I hope you experience the same comforts.
Helpful Score: 2
As a Young Theology Student, Harold Kushner puzzled over the Book of Job. As a small-town rabbi he counseled other people through pain and grief. But not until he learned that his three-year-old son, Aaron, would die in his early teens of a rare disease did he confront one of life's most difficult questions: Where do we find the resources to cope when tragedy strikes? When Bad Things Happen to Good People offers wise and compassionate advice on how to cope with tragedy, what to do about anger and how to keep from feeling guilty.
Helpful Score: 2
This is an older book. For everyone who has ben hurt by life - a book that heals. Good book for those who are dealing with tragedy.
Helpful Score: 2
I found this book to be just the answer I was looking for. Having been trained as a scientist, I have struggled with Darwin vs. the Devine, but this book has really helped me to find a place for both.
Helpful Score: 1
I first read this book in the late 1980's when a family member had a life-ending illness. At time it brought me great comfort. Since that time, I have continued to draw from its message. Whenever there is bad, I also see the good that is present. I have also been fortunate to "just happen" to be at a place to give comfort to others. I attribute this book with helping me to realize these opportunities.
I consider this book to be a "must" for people from all faiths, not only those who experience a crisis in their lives but also for those who want to know how to help others. As the years pass, this book seems to become more relevant, not less.
I consider this book to be a "must" for people from all faiths, not only those who experience a crisis in their lives but also for those who want to know how to help others. As the years pass, this book seems to become more relevant, not less.
