In the certification course, we spent time discussing the "Many Paths to Suicide." Many of you may use this simple, yet very effective, diagram on the multiple contributing factors to suicide as part of your gatekeeper presentations. Similarly, it is my belief that there are many paths to healing. As we encounter loss in our lives, each of us has our own unique way of finding the path to healing. This is especially true is the case of suicide. During these most difficult times, healing often comes from engaging in a variety of activities simultaneously. We have different needs at different times in the grief process. It is as part of this overall process that I believe written materials can fill such a tremendous need.

Thoughts for Lonely Nights: A conversation about grief by Doug Manning (© 2000 by In-Sight Books, Inc.) is an excellent resource for those struggling through the grief process. Manning states that the focus of this book is about "the impact of grief. The feelings, questions and needs felt during the struggle to survive loss." It is written simply and eloquently, as though you are having a very personal conversation about how grief has impacted your life. You are encouraged to actively participate in this discussion by writing out your responses or sharing your responses with others. It can also be a very private and personal exercise as well.

The book is divided into three main sections: Feelings, The Questions and Needs. Within each section are a variety of quotes, phrases or lessons related to the topic at hand. The sections are no more than 2 ½ pages long, corresponding to the fact that, in grief, we often have a hard time concentrating on or absorbing too much information at one time. (The book also contains a CD for those who would choose to simply listen to the information being shared versus reading it.) One example of the style of writing is found in the section called "Neither Friend nor Foe." Manning writes: "Grief comes in waves. The waves come without warning and without pattern. Suddenly we are overwhelmed with grief and pain. We cry at the oddest times. We break down in the most embarrassing of places… Healing is a process of embracing the pain and crying the wave dry" (page 16). As I read Thoughts for Lonely Nights, I was consistently moved by the words and visualizations used. I think you will find it a valuable resource, both personally and as a resource for others.