The Caregiver's Tao Te Ching - by William Martin & Nancy Martin (Paperback)

About the Book

Those who care for the ailing, whether helping someone recover, grapple with a long-term disability, or face a terminal illness, often feel alone, overwhelmed, exhausted. William and Nancy Martin have worked as counselors, hospice trainers, and Zen guides -- and as caregivers themselves. With empathy and insight, they offer readers solace drawn from the eternal wisdom of the "Tao Te Ching."
Like the original Chinese text, this book contains eighty-one chapters. Each chapter includes a poem for caregivers, evocative of the verses of the "Tao Te Ching," followed by a reflection that presents practical guidance for navigating the emotional and physical hardships of caregiving. The resulting resource gently awakens readers to the grace, growth, and even joy possible at each step along their path.

Book Synopsis

Those who care for the ailing, whether helping someone recover, grapple with a long-term disability, or face a terminal illness, often feel alone, overwhelmed, exhausted. William and Nancy Martin have worked as counselors, hospice trainers, and Zen guides -- and as caregivers themselves. With empathy and insight, they offer readers solace drawn from the eternal wisdom of the Tao Te Ching.

Like the original Chinese text, this book contains eighty-one chapters. Each chapter includes a poem for caregivers, evocative of the verses of the Tao Te Ching, followed by a reflection that presents practical guidance for navigating the emotional and physical hardships of caregiving. The resulting resource gently awakens readers to the grace, growth, and even joy possible at each step along their path.

Review Quotes

"Whether one is a caregiver by choice or obligation, Bill and Nancy Martin offer support, understanding, and the possibility of sustaining a healthy practice. If you feel stuck, frustrated, or especially challenged, The Caregiver's Tao Te Ching shines a light on a path through difficult times."
-- Richard Briggs, hospice educator

"Whether you are caring for a family member or acting as a professional, the wisdom of Bill and Nancy Martin's words shines through, illuminating the path for both the giver and receiver of care. They compassionately show us how caregiver and patient can be as one, moving gently together through a profound time in life. If taken to heart, their messages of peace and acceptance will help the caregiver find great meaning and fulfillment."
-- Patricia Watters, RN, director, Paradise Hospice

About the Author

William Martin, a teaching guide at The Still Point Center for Zen Practice, is the author of five books on the Tao Te Ching, including The Parent's Tao Te Ching. Nancy Martin, the founder of Zen Compassionate Care, is the director of The Still Point. They live in Chico, California.