The book comes to me as I am living with my aged parents' gradual, but quickening, deterioration. Their deaths have always seemed to be distant and somewhat abstract inevitabilities, but now I can see that their time here is short. This book is giving me the strength and compassion to continue to be part of their lives in a loving and mindful way.

Facing our own deaths is distinctly different from dealing with the deaths of loved ones. Weithe manages to bring these two difficult ideas together in Shining Moments with insight and -- what I think is key for most readers -- hope.

"Shining Moments" is truly a beautifully written story. The author writes about her reflections on life and death based upon her experience with her father's passing. She was by his side when he went in peace. When she learned that he was dying, she wanted to learn about what to expect. She discovered that there was no one answer to what one experiences when dealing with death. She also learned the importance of appreciating life, and not taking it for granted.
It is so common to avoid thoughts of dying. We bury ourselves in materialistic wants, rather than deal with something that is inevitable. More often than not, it is easier to focus on acquiring things than it is to look at our own mortality. As AWeithe points out, as soon as we are born we begin dying. This is definitely not an easy thought to grasp. It is easier to sit and get lost in what is on television than to truly reflect on our lives. Realistically though, if we start focusing on living meaningful lives and acting with integrity, our lives will have so much more value. There would be no mad rush at the end to try to have to make things right.
"Shining Moments" would be a great book to read for someone who is experiencing a life threatening illness or has a family member who is. It will bring much peace into their hearts. I really think that this book should be read before we get to that point because it will help us to have richer more fulfilling lives and relationships now. I am so glad that I had the chance to read it now, so that I can make positive changes in my life right now. Weithe also taught me to appreciate what I have in my life at this moment. I really do have much to be grateful. Read this book, it will positively change your life.