From the bookshelves

of the other’s experience and presence. It is the story of an old man, a young man – and life’s greatest lesson.

In a few days the sound of Christmas music can be heard. It’s a given that various types of music – jazz, pop, etc – dominate the media through the year, but now the sound of carols and pipe organs float through the air waves and these reflect on us in their special way. We celebrate the season and families gather, and the nature of being together is appreciated. The bond becomes significant when thoughts extend to a family member who has passed from this life. Mal and Dianne Mckissock are the authors of “Coping With Grief”, considered to be a trusted classic guide for the bereaved and their loved ones. It offers sensitive and practical advice on how to deal with anniversaries and special dates.

“Ten Powerful Phrases for Positive People” by Rich Devos provides thought of wisdom which could be used in the simple act of offering a kind word – these can have the power to change lives in positive and profound ways. One example is provided in the chapter “I believe in you” which is extracted from Norman Vincent Peale’s book “The Power of Positive Living”. He especially focuses on the section “Be a Believer = Be an Achiever” and this provides encouragement to children, family members, friends and associates so that their inner talents can be brought to the surface.

When much of the media continues to deprecate the role of the Church in society, a book from the shelves is Bamber Gascoigne’s “A Brief History of Christianity”. It relates the story of Christianity from Roman times to the present. Whether recognised as the Son of God, prophet, man, or myth, no one has had a greater influence on human history than Jesus of Nazareth. The book tells the story of Christian faith through the men and women who shaped it. Nothing rouses greater passions than religious differences and the history of Christianity is replete with politics, intolerance and greed, side by side with the most intimate spiritual experiences.

The future holds opportunity for us, and a solid reference for the disciplines of life come to us in the Holy Bible. The basis of Christmas Day.

Enjoy your browsing, have a joyous Christmas and enjoy a productive New Year.

Rae, Sharon, Rachael, Jett, Brendon, Nancy and Dave