Empty Chair: Handling Grief on Holidays and Special Occasions »

Susan J. Zonnebelt-Smeenge (R.N., Ed.D.) is a clinical psychologist at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.

Robert C. De Vries (D.Min, Ph.D.) is professor of church education at Calvin Theological Seminary. They live in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Like a firestorm blazing through a forest, the grief of losing a loved one seems to leave nothing but ashes in its path. The hope and meaning in life appear to vanish. And at no time is that pain more acute than on holidays and other special occasions.

Yet even after a forest fire, eventually there is new growth. Out of the devastation of grief you can begin again.

In The Empty Chair, the authors, who have each experienced the death of a spouse, share both pastoral and mental health insights on how you can handle significant days. Offering a comforting blend of emotional support, spiritual guidance, and personal experience, this book is a reflective yet practical approach to finding peace and joy on your journey through grief.

Back flap

Susan J. Zonnebelt-Smeenge (R.N., Ed.D.) is a clinical psychologist at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. Robert C. DeVries (D.Min, Ph.D.) is professor of church education at Calvin Theological Seminary and an ordained minister. They live in Grand Rapids, Michigan.