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The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times
The world's religions affirm it to be so and recent research across a number of disciplines tell us that "Helping others not only benefits those we assist but is good for us as well." The recent and astonishingly generous outpouring of help and donations in response to the earthquake in Haiti is a clear demonstration of this phenomenon, but what if we could be convinced to make helping others a way of life, even when times are hard? The Hidden Gifts of Helping Others will leave you with the unshakable feeling that the world is an essentially good place.
- GenresSelf HelpNonfiction
224 pages, Hardcover
Published February 22, 2011
7 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Stephen G. Post
52 books11 followersStephen G. Post, Ph.D. is the best-selling author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping (2011) (www.stephengpost.com/hiddengifts), as listed by the Wall Street Journal. He speaks widely on themes of benevolent love and compassionate care at the interface of science, health, spirituality, and philanthropy. His work has been featured in periodicals such as Parade Magazine and O: The Oprah Magazine, and on such media venues as The Daily Show, John Stossel, 20/20 and Nightline. He has addressed the U.S. Congress on volunteerism and public health.
His contributions to healthcare have been widely acknowledged. He received the Hope in Healthcare Award for “pioneering research and education in the field of unconditional love, altruism, compassion and service” (2008), the Pioneer Medal for “ground-breaking work in healthcare” from HealthCare Chaplaincy of New York (2012), the Kama Book Award in Medical Humanities from World Literacy Canada (2008); and the Distinguished Service Award from the U.S. Alzheimer’s Association (1998). He served as the Public Member of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Composite Committee to which he was reappointed on the basis of “greatly appreciated contributions.” Post is an elected Fellow of the Philadelphia College of Physicians for “outstanding contributions to medicine. “His book entitled The Moral Challenge of Alzheimer Disease: Ethical Issues from Diagnosis to Dying (The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2000, 2nd edition) was designated a “medical classic of the century” by the British Medical Journal, which wrote (2009), “Until this pioneering book was published in 1995 the ethical aspects of one of the most important illnesses of our aging populations were a neglected topic.” He is an elected member of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Panel of Alzheimer’s Disease International.
Professor of Preventive Medicine and Founding Director (2008) of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics at Stony Brook University School of Medicine (www.stonybrook.edu/bioethics), he was previously (1988–2008) Professor in the School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University. In 1994, Post was elected a Hastings Center Fellow, and a Senior Scholar in the Kennedy Institute of Ethics at Georgetown University. He served as editor-in-chief of the third edition of the five-volume Encyclopedia of Bioethics (Macmillan Reference, 2004), the most influential reference work in the field.
His writing was included in “Best American Spiritual Writing” (2005). Post founded The Institute for Research on Unlimited Love (www.unlimitedloveinstitute.com) in 2001 with a four-year grant from the John Templeton Foundation. The Institute engages in the scientific study of self-giving and altruistic love. He is an elected Founding Member of the International Society for Science and Religion at Cambridge University, a Senior Research Fellow in the Becket Institute at St. Hugh’s College of Oxford University, a Senior Fellow in the Center for the Study of Law and Religion at Emory University, a Senior Scholar for the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania, and a Senior Faculty Scholar in the Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health at the Duke University Medical Center.
Post is the primary author of nearly 200 articles in peer-reviewed journals such as Science, The International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, Annals of Internal Medicine, The Journal of Religion, The American Journal of Psychiatry, The Journal of the American Medical Association, The Journal of the American Academy of Religion, The Hastings Center Report, and The Lancet. He has written eight scholarly books on altruism, compassionate care, and love, and is also the editor of nine other books, including Altruism & Health: Perspectives from Empirical Research, and Altruism and Altruistic Love: Science, Philosophy and Religion in Dialogue, both published by Oxford University Press. In addition to
His contributions to healthcare have been widely acknowledged. He received the Hope in Healthcare Award for “pioneering research and education in the field of unconditional love, altruism, compassion and service” (2008), the Pioneer Medal for “ground-breaking work in healthcare” from HealthCare Chaplaincy of New York (2012), the Kama Book Award in Medical Humanities from World Literacy Canada (2008); and the Distinguished Service Award from the U.S. Alzheimer’s Association (1998). He served as the Public Member of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Composite Committee to which he was reappointed on the basis of “greatly appreciated contributions.” Post is an elected Fellow of the Philadelphia College of Physicians for “outstanding contributions to medicine. “His book entitled The Moral Challenge of Alzheimer Disease: Ethical Issues from Diagnosis to Dying (The Johns Hopkins University Press, 2000, 2nd edition) was designated a “medical classic of the century” by the British Medical Journal, which wrote (2009), “Until this pioneering book was published in 1995 the ethical aspects of one of the most important illnesses of our aging populations were a neglected topic.” He is an elected member of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Panel of Alzheimer’s Disease International.
Professor of Preventive Medicine and Founding Director (2008) of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics at Stony Brook University School of Medicine (www.stonybrook.edu/bioethics), he was previously (1988–2008) Professor in the School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University. In 1994, Post was elected a Hastings Center Fellow, and a Senior Scholar in the Kennedy Institute of Ethics at Georgetown University. He served as editor-in-chief of the third edition of the five-volume Encyclopedia of Bioethics (Macmillan Reference, 2004), the most influential reference work in the field.
His writing was included in “Best American Spiritual Writing” (2005). Post founded The Institute for Research on Unlimited Love (www.unlimitedloveinstitute.com) in 2001 with a four-year grant from the John Templeton Foundation. The Institute engages in the scientific study of self-giving and altruistic love. He is an elected Founding Member of the International Society for Science and Religion at Cambridge University, a Senior Research Fellow in the Becket Institute at St. Hugh’s College of Oxford University, a Senior Fellow in the Center for the Study of Law and Religion at Emory University, a Senior Scholar for the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania, and a Senior Faculty Scholar in the Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health at the Duke University Medical Center.
Post is the primary author of nearly 200 articles in peer-reviewed journals such as Science, The International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, Annals of Internal Medicine, The Journal of Religion, The American Journal of Psychiatry, The Journal of the American Medical Association, The Journal of the American Academy of Religion, The Hastings Center Report, and The Lancet. He has written eight scholarly books on altruism, compassionate care, and love, and is also the editor of nine other books, including Altruism & Health: Perspectives from Empirical Research, and Altruism and Altruistic Love: Science, Philosophy and Religion in Dialogue, both published by Oxford University Press. In addition to
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 13, 2011
Book: I like how the book is small enough to fit comfortably in my pocketbook; making it easy for reference
Jacket Design: I enjoy looking at the colors of the loops which reind me of rainbows. (representing Gods promise)
Favorite Quote: God winks and grace quotes: chapter title (I love it)
________________________________________
For the past month or so our pastor has preached on the idea of giving back. He calls it “Life in the key of G; G = generosity. In that spirit I decided to look at Chicago Cares a local volunteer site where you can give back. My very first event I attended I realized something very special and you will find it in chapter 4, on page 95 of The Hidden Gift of Helping.
The theme of “The Hidden Gifts of Helping” is simple, but trying to execute the idea on a continuum might be challenging, but we must continue to try. Research shows when we show concern for others we IMPROVE our health. I found a pearl of wisdom in the introduction which totally set the pace for the book. Stephen G. Post says “the Rx: helping others. This little prescription has the side effect of benefiting the helper, so long as one does not become overwhelmed” , another pearl also found in the introduction; “never give up on giving”. The more you read the more excited and anxious you’ll get. The anxiety stems from wanting to get started right away with your journey of helping.
The book’s genre is self-help/spirituality however it reads less like a self help book and more like a man with a testimony. Post describes to the reader how he lost his job in a city he loved and relocated to unfamiliar territory. Giving to others in his new community helped to relieve stress of leaving behind what was familiar. Helping doesn’t just take your mind off of your situation, but it allows you to pour life into another, just as Post seatmate explained one day on his commute home. That day on the train he discovered the “power of the givers glow”.
I thought this was an excellent book with a timeless premise. The chapters are clear and the lessons concise. This book is for anyone who has ever fallen on hard times. It’s for readers and non readers whose ready to embrace a change and mystery with limitless possibilities.
Missy
Readers Paradise
5 book marks
This book was provided by the author or publisher agent for the purpose of this review.
Jacket Design: I enjoy looking at the colors of the loops which reind me of rainbows. (representing Gods promise)
Favorite Quote: God winks and grace quotes: chapter title (I love it)
________________________________________
For the past month or so our pastor has preached on the idea of giving back. He calls it “Life in the key of G; G = generosity. In that spirit I decided to look at Chicago Cares a local volunteer site where you can give back. My very first event I attended I realized something very special and you will find it in chapter 4, on page 95 of The Hidden Gift of Helping.
The theme of “The Hidden Gifts of Helping” is simple, but trying to execute the idea on a continuum might be challenging, but we must continue to try. Research shows when we show concern for others we IMPROVE our health. I found a pearl of wisdom in the introduction which totally set the pace for the book. Stephen G. Post says “the Rx: helping others. This little prescription has the side effect of benefiting the helper, so long as one does not become overwhelmed” , another pearl also found in the introduction; “never give up on giving”. The more you read the more excited and anxious you’ll get. The anxiety stems from wanting to get started right away with your journey of helping.
The book’s genre is self-help/spirituality however it reads less like a self help book and more like a man with a testimony. Post describes to the reader how he lost his job in a city he loved and relocated to unfamiliar territory. Giving to others in his new community helped to relieve stress of leaving behind what was familiar. Helping doesn’t just take your mind off of your situation, but it allows you to pour life into another, just as Post seatmate explained one day on his commute home. That day on the train he discovered the “power of the givers glow”.
I thought this was an excellent book with a timeless premise. The chapters are clear and the lessons concise. This book is for anyone who has ever fallen on hard times. It’s for readers and non readers whose ready to embrace a change and mystery with limitless possibilities.
Missy
Readers Paradise
5 book marks
This book was provided by the author or publisher agent for the purpose of this review.
December 18, 2011
"The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times " was a surprising read and a great reminder how easy it is to lose our focuses sometimes in a critical world.
It seems easy to look for the negative, to be critical and just focus on the worse of things, but with, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times", Stephen G. Post, reminds us that things can only be as bad as we choose to look at it and not really a "kitschy everything is so good" book, as much as a reminder how our attitude can make or break our view on the bigger picture of the world and the people around us.
Not so much as a prosperity, if you do this, you'll get that, but a genuine, by changing the way we look at our life, our surroundings, the people we interact, how we just take the time, through giving, compassion and hope...just the simple act of having genuine, not about us or anyone, but just hope for everything, can make a difference in our lives and the lives of the people we touch and encounter.
The book brings up a character that we know all about, Ebenezer Scrooge, and his "Bah Humbag" attitude at the world, at everyone and his persistence look for "everything that he saw was wrong" with the world" and the eventually change by the end of the book, as he realized the power of hope, compassion and giving to others.
There is a quote that stood out in the book,
"Hatred, hostility, and revenge are strong emotions that can engulf our deeper sense of Unlimited Love like a tidal wave. Our experiences of God's love can be distorted by the human filters of groupishness and exclusion, and translate into a willing to condemn those who happen to see the world differently than we do. We must be on guard to prevent the love of power from overwhelming the power of love".
In the bible, it says to love our enemies and to forgive our enemies and although, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times", may not appear to be a Christian non-fiction, but that's missing the bigger point...it addresses the very points that makes being human, its best....its brightness and at the time of this review, with it being the holiday season, and for Christians, a reminder of the reason for the season, and as fellow human beings, a reminder of being the best that we can be, not the worse and not focusing on the worse either, which sadly we are all guilty of slipping into, at some point and time.
I love what the author describes as "God-Winks" and "Grace Notes" and I think we have all experienced those moments at some point of our lives and always expectantly.
Not just for the holiday season, but a fantastic reminder for living EVERYDAY of our lives, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" is a must read to remind all of us, no matter what, what makes us great as people.
"The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" was written by Stephen Post in response to a trying time in his life and of his own experience as a "castaway", trying to reach the shores of safety, and what he discover, by rescuing not himself but others and in a way that was compassionate, loving and filled with a genuine hope and love that makes us the best of people, not the worse of people.
This is a book that reminds us, its not about us....its about something bigger than us and that when life gets rocky and it does that "We can find the link between a temporal and material world and the world of spiritual emotions and eternity. In this is a peace that passes all understanding. We can then stand in courage as points of light, and bring healing to ourselves, our families and the world".
"The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" was both an encouraging and challenging book that challenges the reader to rethink their perspective on the world, particularly if they are approaching it with a sense of anger, despair and there is no hope and instead sheds light that when we see the beauty, the hope and instead of focusing on what we think and feel, but look outside of ourselves with hope, compassion and giving to others than ourselves, we can discover something much bigger than ourselves.
This is a book to be read during the holidays, when you may find yourself stressed out and in despair during the holidays or just find yourself feeling a sense of...what hope is out there.
There is hope..and its there and there is compassion if we move pass the blinders we put on ourselves and instead look and see the love and the possibilities that are out there; To often we can fill the glass that we look at the world with so much doubt, criticism, negativity and skepticism that we miss the good that is really there.
This is a book that will help you see how there is something better out there....
It seems easy to look for the negative, to be critical and just focus on the worse of things, but with, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times", Stephen G. Post, reminds us that things can only be as bad as we choose to look at it and not really a "kitschy everything is so good" book, as much as a reminder how our attitude can make or break our view on the bigger picture of the world and the people around us.
Not so much as a prosperity, if you do this, you'll get that, but a genuine, by changing the way we look at our life, our surroundings, the people we interact, how we just take the time, through giving, compassion and hope...just the simple act of having genuine, not about us or anyone, but just hope for everything, can make a difference in our lives and the lives of the people we touch and encounter.
The book brings up a character that we know all about, Ebenezer Scrooge, and his "Bah Humbag" attitude at the world, at everyone and his persistence look for "everything that he saw was wrong" with the world" and the eventually change by the end of the book, as he realized the power of hope, compassion and giving to others.
There is a quote that stood out in the book,
"Hatred, hostility, and revenge are strong emotions that can engulf our deeper sense of Unlimited Love like a tidal wave. Our experiences of God's love can be distorted by the human filters of groupishness and exclusion, and translate into a willing to condemn those who happen to see the world differently than we do. We must be on guard to prevent the love of power from overwhelming the power of love".
In the bible, it says to love our enemies and to forgive our enemies and although, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times", may not appear to be a Christian non-fiction, but that's missing the bigger point...it addresses the very points that makes being human, its best....its brightness and at the time of this review, with it being the holiday season, and for Christians, a reminder of the reason for the season, and as fellow human beings, a reminder of being the best that we can be, not the worse and not focusing on the worse either, which sadly we are all guilty of slipping into, at some point and time.
I love what the author describes as "God-Winks" and "Grace Notes" and I think we have all experienced those moments at some point of our lives and always expectantly.
Not just for the holiday season, but a fantastic reminder for living EVERYDAY of our lives, "The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" is a must read to remind all of us, no matter what, what makes us great as people.
"The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" was written by Stephen Post in response to a trying time in his life and of his own experience as a "castaway", trying to reach the shores of safety, and what he discover, by rescuing not himself but others and in a way that was compassionate, loving and filled with a genuine hope and love that makes us the best of people, not the worse of people.
This is a book that reminds us, its not about us....its about something bigger than us and that when life gets rocky and it does that "We can find the link between a temporal and material world and the world of spiritual emotions and eternity. In this is a peace that passes all understanding. We can then stand in courage as points of light, and bring healing to ourselves, our families and the world".
"The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" was both an encouraging and challenging book that challenges the reader to rethink their perspective on the world, particularly if they are approaching it with a sense of anger, despair and there is no hope and instead sheds light that when we see the beauty, the hope and instead of focusing on what we think and feel, but look outside of ourselves with hope, compassion and giving to others than ourselves, we can discover something much bigger than ourselves.
This is a book to be read during the holidays, when you may find yourself stressed out and in despair during the holidays or just find yourself feeling a sense of...what hope is out there.
There is hope..and its there and there is compassion if we move pass the blinders we put on ourselves and instead look and see the love and the possibilities that are out there; To often we can fill the glass that we look at the world with so much doubt, criticism, negativity and skepticism that we miss the good that is really there.
This is a book that will help you see how there is something better out there....
December 9, 2011
Are you facing hard times due to a job loss, the need to relocate or the loss of your home?
Has your life been changed by the volatile economic times, job uncertainty and the increasing isolation and loneliness of modern life?
"Hidden Gifts of Helping; How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" by Stephen Post, is a book about the pain and healing of being uprooted.
In 2008, Mr.Post was told that his job at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine was ending. After more than 20 years, the Post family was forced to leave their beloved home in Cleveland, Ohio and move to northern Long Island where Mr. Post had been offered a new job.
The author shares his own personal story about the struggles that his family faced in their journey to adjust to a new community. The author shares research on the emotional and physical challenges that often come with moving. Americans are on the move in these economic times, and often less because they want to than because they have to. The author shares the healing power of helping others in his own family's adjustment to a new home and community.
Mr. Post offers tips and specific advice on how to get started reaching out to others when you are facing difficult situations. Many people tend to become isolated and depressed when adjusting to a new and different environment. The author suggests the following tips finding your own hidden gifts of giving;
Keep a journal about the large and small ways you are giving to people right now.
Think about how others have given to you, right now or in the past.
Visualize helping.
Make it a practice to help one person each day.
Draw on your own talents in giving.
The author believes that regardless of our life circumstances or genetic predisposition, our happiness depends on how we play the cards that we are dealt. Our own behavior, attitudes, activities, practices and responses determine our happiness.
I found this book to be uplifting and inspiring. It is a perfect read for going into a new year with a determination to make giving and helping others a priority in our lives. What a wonderful gift to give ourselves and others!!!
I think Mr. Post has truly found the key to happiness. The information in this book applies to all ages. The author shares his Christian faith in this book but you do not have to be a Christian to benefit from this publication. I highly recommend this book to all who are seeking happiness in all the wrong places.
Has your life been changed by the volatile economic times, job uncertainty and the increasing isolation and loneliness of modern life?
"Hidden Gifts of Helping; How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get Us Through Hard Times" by Stephen Post, is a book about the pain and healing of being uprooted.
In 2008, Mr.Post was told that his job at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine was ending. After more than 20 years, the Post family was forced to leave their beloved home in Cleveland, Ohio and move to northern Long Island where Mr. Post had been offered a new job.
The author shares his own personal story about the struggles that his family faced in their journey to adjust to a new community. The author shares research on the emotional and physical challenges that often come with moving. Americans are on the move in these economic times, and often less because they want to than because they have to. The author shares the healing power of helping others in his own family's adjustment to a new home and community.
Mr. Post offers tips and specific advice on how to get started reaching out to others when you are facing difficult situations. Many people tend to become isolated and depressed when adjusting to a new and different environment. The author suggests the following tips finding your own hidden gifts of giving;
Keep a journal about the large and small ways you are giving to people right now.
Think about how others have given to you, right now or in the past.
Visualize helping.
Make it a practice to help one person each day.
Draw on your own talents in giving.
The author believes that regardless of our life circumstances or genetic predisposition, our happiness depends on how we play the cards that we are dealt. Our own behavior, attitudes, activities, practices and responses determine our happiness.
I found this book to be uplifting and inspiring. It is a perfect read for going into a new year with a determination to make giving and helping others a priority in our lives. What a wonderful gift to give ourselves and others!!!
I think Mr. Post has truly found the key to happiness. The information in this book applies to all ages. The author shares his Christian faith in this book but you do not have to be a Christian to benefit from this publication. I highly recommend this book to all who are seeking happiness in all the wrong places.
May 18, 2011
Title: THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING
Author: Stephen G. Post
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
February 2011
ISBN: 978-0470887813
Genre: Self-help
“Everyone stumbles on hard times. After all, mo one gets out of life alive. Today, even those who had considered themselves protected from hardship are being touched and their lives changed by volatile economic markets, job uncertainty, and the increasing isolation ad loneliness of modern life…”
Researchers have discovered that when we show concern for others, such as empathizing with a friend who lost a loved one or has been diagnosed with a potentially fatal disease, doing yard work for an elderly neighbor, or volunteering to mentor a child, we improve our own health and well-being and embrace and give voice to our deeper identity and dignity as human beings.
Stephen Post takes the time in THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING to show us how we can make “helping” a lifetime activity. The book shares Post’s personal story and his family’s experience with how helping people changed their lives.
The book is filled with personal stories, supporting scientific research, and spiritual understanding. THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING includes questionnaires, scripture, and applications for you to find your own gifts, as well as other things. Invaluable resource for pastors and lay members alike. If more people learned from the ideas in this book, not only would their lives improve, but so would society as a whole. $19.95 hardcover. 224 pages.
Author: Stephen G. Post
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
February 2011
ISBN: 978-0470887813
Genre: Self-help
“Everyone stumbles on hard times. After all, mo one gets out of life alive. Today, even those who had considered themselves protected from hardship are being touched and their lives changed by volatile economic markets, job uncertainty, and the increasing isolation ad loneliness of modern life…”
Researchers have discovered that when we show concern for others, such as empathizing with a friend who lost a loved one or has been diagnosed with a potentially fatal disease, doing yard work for an elderly neighbor, or volunteering to mentor a child, we improve our own health and well-being and embrace and give voice to our deeper identity and dignity as human beings.
Stephen Post takes the time in THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING to show us how we can make “helping” a lifetime activity. The book shares Post’s personal story and his family’s experience with how helping people changed their lives.
The book is filled with personal stories, supporting scientific research, and spiritual understanding. THE HIDDEN GIFTS OF HELPING includes questionnaires, scripture, and applications for you to find your own gifts, as well as other things. Invaluable resource for pastors and lay members alike. If more people learned from the ideas in this book, not only would their lives improve, but so would society as a whole. $19.95 hardcover. 224 pages.
October 6, 2014
This book really spoke to me. It has changed my thinking and maybe my life. It has confirmed for me how difficult it is to move and readjust to a new home and city. Since we are contemplating a move, near or far, it was providential that I read the book when I did. I have saved passages from the book. The writing is not the best, clumsy at times and in the language of psychology, but the author's heart is in the right place. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in doing volunteer work of any type, already doing volunteer work. or thinking of moving.
September 29, 2015
This was an okay book. The ideas weren't that earth-shattering, kind of things I already knew, but still it was nice to read. I might not have been the target audience for this book, so if the book sounds interesting to you give it a read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.
July 21, 2017
We help others because it keeps us human. This is what we are born to do, and the benefits are great - not only to those we help but also to our own emotional, mental and spiritual well-being and is deeply rewarding. Giving to others, even in the smallest way, is a wonderful gift. It is indeed amazing how words and kindness have the power to heal, perhaps much more than medicines
I expected the book to cover aspects of how it effected the author or the lives around him, scientific evidences. But was bit disappointed.
I expected the book to cover aspects of how it effected the author or the lives around him, scientific evidences. But was bit disappointed.
May 3, 2011
'...with a little help from my friends..'
Stephen G. Post makes us pause, reexamine our response to our private and our global world, look inside at the seed of joy, and shares by personal experience one of the most simple ways to make a difference: helping which in turn rewards not only those whom we help but also results in finding deep happiness. This little book is not meant to be a profound philosophical dissertation or a self help manual. Instead Post suggests that the changes in the world we all long for and often find evasive can be at least be partially ameliorated by a fundamentally easy act - that of helping other people.
Post's formula for Deep Happiness is '1. Foremost, love others!; 2. Cultivate moral integrity; 3. Enjoy thankful simplicity; 4. Stay true to your higher purposes.' The manner in which the author leads the reader to breathe in his quiet doctrines is his sharing of his family's change - moving from a place of belonging (Cleveland) to a place of strangeness but a place that offered the author an opportunity to elevate his gifts of teaching humanitarianism in Long Island (he is currently a professor of preventive medicine and director if the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care and Bioethics at Stony Brook University). Post transfers his personal responses to change to nearly everyone today who because of the recession or aging or lack of funds or illness - suggesting ways of coping by overcoming stress and trauma by performing little acts of kindness to those less fortunate than us. He also deals with the topic of those most in need and spends a chapter discussing Alzheimer's Disease and how we can reach out and help those with advanced aging and at the same time how we can care for ourselves so as not to become a 'wounded healer'. Drug and alcohol dependency issues fall into his realm of helping those afflicted. The extensions of his help and compassion find outlets in every form of life problems which tend to paralyze those who want to be of help but instead protect ourselves by avoiding.
But where Stephen G. Post hits his mark is the gently insidious manner in which he introduces how we can repair a broken world. ' Being concerned with the welfare of others simply has every kind of evolutionary advantage. Children do not thrive unless they feel cared for and experience empathy and loyalty. People in a particular group will prosper to the extent that altruistic emotions and behaviors like compassion and cooperation operate effectively.' And where he takes this discussion is to a circle where world peace is more than a dream but a possibility. Simple ideas, but concepts that make a tremendous impact on the reader and hopefully on everyone with whom the reader relates and helps!
Grady Harp
Stephen G. Post makes us pause, reexamine our response to our private and our global world, look inside at the seed of joy, and shares by personal experience one of the most simple ways to make a difference: helping which in turn rewards not only those whom we help but also results in finding deep happiness. This little book is not meant to be a profound philosophical dissertation or a self help manual. Instead Post suggests that the changes in the world we all long for and often find evasive can be at least be partially ameliorated by a fundamentally easy act - that of helping other people.
Post's formula for Deep Happiness is '1. Foremost, love others!; 2. Cultivate moral integrity; 3. Enjoy thankful simplicity; 4. Stay true to your higher purposes.' The manner in which the author leads the reader to breathe in his quiet doctrines is his sharing of his family's change - moving from a place of belonging (Cleveland) to a place of strangeness but a place that offered the author an opportunity to elevate his gifts of teaching humanitarianism in Long Island (he is currently a professor of preventive medicine and director if the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care and Bioethics at Stony Brook University). Post transfers his personal responses to change to nearly everyone today who because of the recession or aging or lack of funds or illness - suggesting ways of coping by overcoming stress and trauma by performing little acts of kindness to those less fortunate than us. He also deals with the topic of those most in need and spends a chapter discussing Alzheimer's Disease and how we can reach out and help those with advanced aging and at the same time how we can care for ourselves so as not to become a 'wounded healer'. Drug and alcohol dependency issues fall into his realm of helping those afflicted. The extensions of his help and compassion find outlets in every form of life problems which tend to paralyze those who want to be of help but instead protect ourselves by avoiding.
But where Stephen G. Post hits his mark is the gently insidious manner in which he introduces how we can repair a broken world. ' Being concerned with the welfare of others simply has every kind of evolutionary advantage. Children do not thrive unless they feel cared for and experience empathy and loyalty. People in a particular group will prosper to the extent that altruistic emotions and behaviors like compassion and cooperation operate effectively.' And where he takes this discussion is to a circle where world peace is more than a dream but a possibility. Simple ideas, but concepts that make a tremendous impact on the reader and hopefully on everyone with whom the reader relates and helps!
Grady Harp
May 15, 2011
Review: The Hidden Gifts of Helping - Stephen G. Post - February 2011
Have you ever wondered what the gifts of helping can achieve ? What the simple act of helping another can lead too ? It is one of the most powerful gifts in the world. Everyday in one way or another , many of us are helping others and it is such an amazing miracle how the tiniest bit of help can make the most difference. In Stephen Post's new book "The Hidden Gifts of Helping" , he discusses how the power of the following gifts from God - Giving, Compassion and Hope can get us all through hard times. Another gift that I think goes hand in hand personally with Hope is Faith. I think it is truly amazing how much a difference it makes in one another's lives by having those gifts of helping. For me personally, Having faith and hope can help you to achieve the most scariest and dangerous and sometimes awful situations , that at the time may not seem possible but if we put all our gifts in a basket and present to God, he will help us through the dark patches. The main storyline throughout Stephen Post's book "The Hidden Gifts of Helping" talks about his personal struggle and how these gifts of Compassion , Giving and Hope got him through a dark time and helped him begin a clean, fresh and anew closer spiritual journey with the Lord.
If you have been given the gifts of Helping, I believe that you will find this one of the most worthwhile books to read to help you strengthn your gifts from God and if you feel that , that is not your path then the book will help you re-discover or even discover that closeness of a relationship with the lord.
Have you ever wondered what the gifts of helping can achieve ? What the simple act of helping another can lead too ? It is one of the most powerful gifts in the world. Everyday in one way or another , many of us are helping others and it is such an amazing miracle how the tiniest bit of help can make the most difference. In Stephen Post's new book "The Hidden Gifts of Helping" , he discusses how the power of the following gifts from God - Giving, Compassion and Hope can get us all through hard times. Another gift that I think goes hand in hand personally with Hope is Faith. I think it is truly amazing how much a difference it makes in one another's lives by having those gifts of helping. For me personally, Having faith and hope can help you to achieve the most scariest and dangerous and sometimes awful situations , that at the time may not seem possible but if we put all our gifts in a basket and present to God, he will help us through the dark patches. The main storyline throughout Stephen Post's book "The Hidden Gifts of Helping" talks about his personal struggle and how these gifts of Compassion , Giving and Hope got him through a dark time and helped him begin a clean, fresh and anew closer spiritual journey with the Lord.
If you have been given the gifts of Helping, I believe that you will find this one of the most worthwhile books to read to help you strengthn your gifts from God and if you feel that , that is not your path then the book will help you re-discover or even discover that closeness of a relationship with the lord.
June 25, 2011
This has the trappings of a "self-help" book, but it's much more than that. A good reminder that we are connected, and that self-giving love -- the gift of helping others, enables us to not only survive, but thrive. Written by a professor of "preventative medicine," it blends theology (lightly), psychology, medicine, and ethics to provide a good foundation for understanding the benefits to the self of giving to others.
For a full review, check my blog: http://pastorbobcornwall.blogspot.com...
For a full review, check my blog: http://pastorbobcornwall.blogspot.com...
January 4, 2014
I read this following a conference entitled Spirituality and Health. The author was speaking at the conference. His presentation is more or less word for word what is in this little book. So it all felt very familiar, the same anecdotes. I hear the message on helping others that is highly worthy and beneficial to all, including the giver. However am a bit wary of over committing to the point of burn out. It happens too often in the caring professions.
June 17, 2011
We all go through difficult times, or things that are unpleasant. In this little book Stephen Post shows how to uncover the gifts in the life changing challenges. This is quite the insightful book and very encouraging. I highly recommend it
September 7, 2016
Looking for some guidance following my cancer diagnosis. This was ok, but not exactly what I wanted.
Read
May 30, 2012There are, oddly, two entries for this book.
Name's in the acknowledgement here too. What a self indulgent day on the internet.
Name's in the acknowledgement here too. What a self indulgent day on the internet.
Read
January 5, 2014OK. Not a book I'd recommend. It was more of a book of how a man and his family moved from one city to another and serving others helped them to adjust to their new location
January 30, 2016
Inspiring
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