Caregivers-both religious and not-will find that this remarkable book goes right to the heart of the matter. It explores how we as clinicians can listen atten- tively and respond to-if not answer the terrible questions our patients ask when confronted with major illness or death. This exploration addresses the spiritual anxiety that can compound physical and mental suffering. This book can help us all to be more effective as clinicians as we try to help our patients and their families to find some meaning, some good in what can otherwise be a thoroughly negative experience. To hear and help the sufferer can transform these painful situations."

-Stephen J. McPhee, M.D., Professor of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco