This Is Hard: What I Say When Loved Ones Die.

"This is hard."

With those words, a hospital chaplain acknowledges the pain we feel after the death of someone we love. And then he slowly reflects on our questions:

• "Why can't I think?"
• "Why am I sad when they are at peace?"
• "Why do people say stupid things?"
• "Is this my fault?"

Formed in hospital rooms and walks down hallways, this short book is like a conversation with someone who understands loss, with words of clarification for our feelings and space to write what is worth remembering in the future.

This book is helpful for people in the hours and days after a loss. It's helpful for pastors, friends, and family members wanting to know what to say and what not to say. It's helpful for anyone who, at some moment needs to hear, "This is hard."