We live in a culture that tends to deny death and minimize grief. Yet, in reality, transitions need not be so difficult or scary. In fact, transitions can be welcomed with joy and even celebration when we realize what's really happening: We are "graduating" from one chapter of life and moving on to the next. We Americans have a great deal to learn along these lines, sometimes through the many other religions and cultures of the world. As we open ourselves up to the truth of change, letting go, and the power of transformation in our lives, we can become more daring and courageous in how we live moment to moment. We can also help others face their transitions and grief with grace, ease, and even anticipation and joy.

Most people have a good deal of grief we carry around that we're not aware of. As we become more aware of our grief and release it, we can tune into the present moment more fully and live more fulfilling, nourishing lives. As we "make friends" with death and grief, we find deeper inner peace and joy. This in turn helps us to create peace and joy on the outside.

We are living in tumultuous times. Due to the great transformation our world is going through, most people are experiencing major changes and shifts in their lives. There is more "letting go" and grieving to be done than ever before. Some are becoming ill and facing death - at times very suddenly. In these situations, palliative and end-of-life, hospice care can often provide just the support that's needed.

Maria Dancing Heart's book, The Last Adventure of Life: Sacred Resources for Living and Dying from a Hospice Counselor, comes out of her work with hospice that expanded her in a big way. This work is a tool for healing, education, and prayer. It could assist anyone who is grieving, preparing to die, or caring for loved ones. It could also be helpful for those moving through a transition in their life or interested in exploring new ways to view spirituality and death. It is an "introduction to hospice," honoring that hospice care is an experience grounded in spirituality.

Because Maria's work in spiritual and bereavement care with hospice honors the inter-relatedness of all things, this book has a universal perspective and appeal. Anyone interested in these matters could pick it up and appreciate it; it is also likely to assist those desiring to go deeper spiritually. This book includes inspirational stories, poetry, scripture, prayers, and guided meditations. It also has chapters on grief and relaxation/healing tools, and a wealth of reference material. It is a "treasure trove of hope and healing," reframing the experience of death as a new and exciting chapter in life.

Through her work, Maria hopes that death, grief, and transformation of all kinds might be looked at in new ways. We can see these experiences as adventures and "gifts" in our lives, rather than experiences to be avoided. Dancing Heart's message brings death back to life!

Enjoy browsing this website, and please share your experiences and feedback by visiting our contact page.

Here is one of Maria's favorite stories about death and transformation that she reads to children to explain death.