"The Blessing" by Dr. John Trent and Gary Smalley

"Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance" -- who does not want a part of that?! Having a number of children in my sphere of influence, and wanting to make the most of each opportunity, I was thrilled to be able to read this book. Originally published 25 years ago, this updated version brings Biblical insight up to today's terms, complete with references to Facebook and Skype!

What is "the blessing"? It's a way of letting your child know that you love them, support them, and are there for them. According to Trent and Smalley and their study of Scripture, it is comprised of five key elements: meaningful and appropriate touch, a spoken message, attaching high value, picturing a special future, and an active commitment. Each of these elements are explained in depth in the first half of the book. I was ready to immediately go and put them in practice, so convincing and inspiring were their words!

The second half of the book is absolutely wonderful as well, with a whole section focusing on what to do if you did not receive the blessing as you were growing up. Not every child grows up in a happy, healthy home... and even well-intentioned parents can miss the boat by assuming their child knows how they are committed to them, when they've never opened their mouths to actually let them know. I'd say a large percentage of people would fall under the category of "when the blessing doesn't happen" and I found those chapters extremely balancing and important. Offering real-life stories of hope and healing, they point you towards the Source of all true blessing, the One who makes all things new and whole. The authors also discuss the importance of understanding why parents may not have been able to pass on the blessing and how we can turn around and bless them, showing the way for renewed relationships.

While "The Blessing" is primarily a parenting book, the authors also show how implementing these elements into your lives can have a positive effect on your marriage, friendships and church body. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in relational studies or those seeking healing from a bad home experience. This is definitely going on my "keeper shelf" as a resource to be used over and over. 
 
I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.