Last Adventure of Life, The

This collection of sacred and inspirational writings is for anyone who is interested in exploring new ways to view spirituality and the end of life - whether they are facing death themselves or caring for loved ones who are ill, grieving or preparing to die. The author, Maria Hoaglund, a hospice counsellor, writes: 'Many people wait until the last minutes of life to talk about death. I have come to see that talking, reading and thinking about one's death - even visualising it - can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Facing the reality of death can be a catalyst to help us let go of our fears and live more fully in the present moment.' Hospice work supports the dying person through the final months of their lives. This book is drawn from Maria Hoaglund's collection of sacred, inspirational and transformative material collected during ten years as a hospice counsellor. Now she is sharing it with others. Drawing on a broad range of religions, spiritual traditions and contributions from writers, The Last Adventure of Life has ten thematic chapters:  

• Truth: Letting go is liberating  
• Beauty: The divine presence within all living things  
• Love: The only real power  
• Joy: Tuning into humour and gratitude  
• Trust: Healing into wholeness  
• Reflection: Life review and dealing with unfinished business  
• Awareness: Cultivating the art of meditation  
• Hope: Reflections on the afterlife and the interconnectedness of all  
• Spiritual path: receiving strength from our faith traditions, and
• Grace: The transforming power of grief. 

Also included is the author's extensive annotated resource of books, DVDs, websites and healing styles - making this a treasury of hope and healing that reframes the experience of death as one of transformation.  

'This is skillful advice from a revered hospice worker who speaks from the deep experience of a true heart.' Stephen & Ondrea Levine, authors of Who Dies?  

'Maria's work brings the medicine of tender compassion to the human heart suffering the pain and loss of separation.' Lee Lawson, author of Love Letters From the Infinite. 

'Maria has expertly combined the word of God, her career experiences working with hospice and many stories and poems from a large selection of authors and individuals to put together this deep, meaningful and informational resource.' Rev. Anne Marie Evers, author of Affirmations: Your passport to happiness. 

'I have searched through many books to use as a text for my Death & Dying, Life & Living class ... I chose The Last Adventure of Life because it is ... a repository of hope, kindness and love.' John Petellat, Psychology Instructor, Daytona Beach College, Florida.