Simple Lessons for A Better Life

""A clear and concise gem, espousing salient themes extrapolated from older persons and demonstrating how cognizance of, and compassion for, later-in-life occurrences provide a means to survive and thrive at any age…. Dodgen provides a user-friendly blueprint for better living…. Immensely inspirational and deeply moving.”—New Jersey Psychologist“An inspiring book that is well worth reading.”—Bookviews by Alan Caruba“[Dodgen's] insights reminded me of those of another wise student of life...Rabbi Harold Kushner, the author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People.... So what did [Dodgen] learn from these men and women, who, it might seem were themselves victims of a painful brand of what he aptly called "identity theft"? That while your body may be surrendering, your soul and spirit don't have to. That a great attitude will reflect like a mirror, back to you from others. And most dramatic, says this therapist author, he's learned that in some ways suffering is actually optional...one of the profound lessons...So deceptively simple--and so true. Love is an unchanging, essential ingredient at every stage of life.”—Burlington County Times“Dodgen's conversational tone and personal anecdotes make his pointers thought-provoking without being preachy…. This compilation of common sense and insight gently reminds readers to look for the feelings beneath the words and to read body language, which is darn good advice for any social interaction.”—Booklist“Nuanced…. Being reminded to strive to live ethically, cleanly and kindly is always welcome. And Dodgen does so with grace and experience.”—Newark Star-Ledger“A refreshing and life-affirming book that lets nursing-home residents speak for themselves. Their words, along with Dodgen's insightful commentary, give readers the gift of mindfulness, resiliency, kindness, and compassion.”—Janet Yagoda Shagam, PhD, freelance medical and science writer, and author of An Unintended Journey