Divrei Nichum: Comforting Words During Times of Loss, is an original collection of poems for mourners. Drawing on Jewish theology and traditional rituals around death and dying, this collection guides the mourner toward meaning and transformation. Using the ancient road map as a template, Divrei Nichum explores this terrain with modern eyes. The language is current, accessible, honest. While exploring the themes associated with loss primarily from a Jewish perspective, Divrei Nichum is intended to reach all who grieve the loss of loved ones. The poems in this collection affirm there is only one essential truth that binds every living creature--the cycle of birth and death. We are birthed into existence, we live for some time on Earth, and then we die, leaving this world. While we all share this fundamental truth, navigating the terrain of loss can be overwhelming, frightening, alienating. Jewish rituals around death and dying provide meaning during a confusing time; they create structure during a chaotic time; they offer possibility during a potentially hopeless time. However, many do not feel connected to religious and spiritual practice. Not everyone is moved to use ancient biblical texts for comfort and meaning. Or perhaps some are, but don’t know where to look and how to start. Divrei Nichum provides a gentle and welcoming entry for the mourner to navigate loss.The poems are divided into the following categories: Terminal Illness and Dying, Death (Shmirah, Taharah, Tachrichim), Burial, Comforting Mourners (Kaddish, Shivah, Shloshim, Yahrtzeit), Confronting Mortality (Viddui, Gratitude, Conscious Living).These poems attempt to connect us all through the pain of loss and the mystery of death. These words allow the reader to travel the well-worn path of our ancestors. In these verses we walk together as companions, leaning into the wisdom of our people, moving toward wholeness.