September 30, 2017

What those who are suffering need to hear from you

People often struggle with what to say to those who are suffering. They can struggle so much that they say things that sound really awkward and strange. Even worse, they can be so afraid of saying the wrong thing that they end up saying nothing at all. That’s understandable. Reflecting […]
Do you like it?0
Read more
September 17, 2017

On books that changed the lives of young readers

Books and readers “Once a reader finds that author and that book,” John Cole explains, “something remarkable occurs. Readers discover themselves within the pages of the book, and they begin to feel and understand.” Letters to authors Cole is the Director and Founder of the Center for the Book in […]
Do you like it?0
Read more
September 2, 2017

Close readings of narrative medicine and spiritual care

Rita Charon Meet Rita Charon—physician, literary scholar and the Founder and Executive Director of Columbia University’s Program in Narrative Medicine. Listening Reminiscent of Gabriel Marcel’s (1889-1973) understanding of “presence” as spiritual “availability” (disponibilité), Charon (2005) described her style of listening to patients in terms of “donating the self toward the […]
Do you like it?0
Read more