Roses in December: Comfort for the Grieving Heart by Marilyn Willett Heavilin (2006-04-01) Paperback – 1879

I originally bought this to help me with someone whose relative has a potentially fatal condition and it is not right for them. It would just make them completely overwhelmed with fear. This is a book if you already lost a loved one or know you soon will. Great chapters to help you be helpful to the grieving (what to say, what NOT to say, what kinds of help they need, what they probably don't need, etc.) Death isn't just sad, it's also awkward. We don't talk about it, we avoid seeing it happen and we are unprepared for it, despite the fact that life has a 100% mortality rate. I feel like I'll be a better friend/family member the next time it strikes my world, and thank the author for being so vulnerable and letting God use her pain to help so many others.

I initially bought this book for my mother-in-law after my brother-in-law died in 1986. I have since bought it many times when friends and coworkers have lost children. I most recently bought it for a patient who lost a grandson in an auto accident. Everyone I have given it to has said it has helped them to understand their grief and accept the plan God has for all our lives.To comprehend the incredible loss Mrs. Heavilin has experienced and yet use that pain to help others is inspiring. I honestly believe this book should be in the comfort kit for every hospice nurse in the country

I really loved this book so much. I haven't lost a child personally, but it really helped me understand grief and handle my own personal griefs in different ways. I ordered the kindle format at first and then when a friend of mine lost his child, I knew I had to buy the book in its physical form for him. I will always order these books for anyone who is grieving. Thank you Marilyn for your willingness to listen to God and to reach out to other parents who are hurting. You are a blessing to many.

In August 1987, I went through what is medically referred to as a missed abortion...the miscarriage didn't complete, and thus I was left carrying a dead baby for another month until she was born. After her birth, I was in the Family Book Store and happened across this book. I promptly purchased it, took it home and read it at one sitting. In this book I learned that it is okay to be angry with God, to vent feelings of anger and frustration. There had been several books on the list given to me at the hospital, but nothing to compare to this book. I actually went back to the store and purchased a second copy which I gave to my doctor. Found out later that he too purchased several copies that he gave as gifts to some of his colleagues. Also he had this book added to the list of reading material given out by the hospital. Bacause of people like Marilyn who was willing to share her deepest feelings with the rest of the world, we have this very wonderful book. Grief is something that each of us handles in our own unique way, and this book is definitely a help in getting through the grieving process.

While reading Roses in December, I found I could relate to this mother; the grief she endured. Yet I found myself smiling too because of her strong faith in God. If anyone has lost a child, this book is a definite starting point for picking up the pieces and moving on. Marilyn shows you through what she went through how to do just that. She explains grief, and why we must grieve.And the message she shares, will tug at your heart strings. This woman is truly amazing and has endured many trials. I'll treasure this book forever. Thank you, Marilyn.

I have bought this book several times for friends and family members who have lost children. A thoughtful approach to one of the most painful situations any parent can endure. Grieving goes on forever, but words from someone who has gone through it can help.

My son was taken from me by a careless driver and this book was recommended to help me in the early stages of my grief. It was very helpful to understand that what I am/was feeling is normal, I am not alone. For anyone dealing with or has friends/family dealing with the sudden loss of a child, this is a must read! This book introduced me to an international support group - The Compassionate Friends. Without this book and The Compassionate Friends, I don't know where I would be right now. Knowing others feel and grieve in a manner similar to me is immensely helpful. I will read it again!

I first read this book within days after the death of my infant daughter in November of 1987. Since that time, I have given this book or suggested it for others who have struggled with how to deal with the loss of a child, regardless of that child's age. Even after all these years, this is the one book that helped me the most and that I continue to suggest to those dealing with grief. This book has also helped me to talk with others going through the grieving process, specifically to help them understand the different stages of grief and that you must go through them all or you will never fully be able to deal with your grief. I will continue to recommend and gift this book as opportunities arise. Well written, easy to read and above all else, a wonderful help during a time of personal loss.