Finding Meaning

The Sixth Stage of Grief

By: David Kessler

Narrated by: David Kessler

In this groundbreaking and “poignant” (Los Angeles Times) book, David Kessler—praised for his work by Maria Shriver, Marianne Williamson, and Mother Teresa—journeys beyond the classic five stages to discover a sixth stage: meaning.

In 1969, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross first identified the stages of dying in her transformative book On Death and Dying. Decades later, she and David Kessler wrote the classic On Grief and Grieving, introducing the stages of grief with the same transformative pragmatism and compassion. Now, based on hard-earned personal experiences, as well as knowledge and wisdom gained through decades of work with the grieving, Kessler introduces a critical sixth stage: meaning.

Kessler’s insight is both professional and intensely personal. His journey with grief began when, as a child, he witnessed a mass shooting at the same time his mother was dying. For most of his life, Kessler taught physicians, nurses, counselors, police, and first responders about end of life, trauma, and grief, as well as leading talks and retreats for those experiencing grief. Despite his knowledge, his life was upended by the sudden death of his twenty-one-year-old son. How does the grief expert handle such a tragic loss? He knew he had to find a way through this unexpected, devastating loss, a way that would honor his son. That, ultimately, was the sixth stage of grief—meaning. In Finding Meaning, Kessler shares the insights, collective wisdom, and powerful tools that will help those experiencing loss.

“Beautiful, tender, and wise” (Katy Butler, author of The Art of Dying Well), Finding Meaning is “an excellent addition to grief literature that helps pave the way for steps toward healing” (School Library Journal).

Critic reviews

"Grief expert David Kessler's narration has the stamp of a healer or mental health practitioner. The collaborator of Elizabeth Kubler–Ross discusses how the final stage of grief—acceptance—is not usually the end of the story for the loved ones of those who have died. Kessler sounds earnest, relaxed, and, above all, palpably committed to his work and message. His vocal intensity always sounds fitting and authentic. He recounts personal stories of loss from clients and his own life that are central to illustrating his point that grief is different for everyone and will always express itself in its own way. He says what's important is quieting ourselves enough to honor and listen to it, in ourselves or others, rather than smothering it with advice or denying it."

Essential Book for a Grief Journey

Our beautiful son died by suicide almost five years ago. David’s book is the first one I’ve read that finally helped me to look not only at my grief but also to look beyond it. I have a long way to go and I may never truly be able to find the meaning of my loss, but David’s words and the raw stories of his own loss provided a light. Thank you David😘

The best book for my grief

After more than two years' grief of loss of my dad, and countless self help books, I thought I was ready to move to the sixth stage. This book is so meaningful for guideline and the author knows my grief deeply. The hope is giving me full strength to look for the meaning and to move forward with my life.

Absolutely life changing

If you are grieving, this book will help you heal. Beautifully written with tender love

Thank you David!!!

David, this book came at a time when I have been dealing with the lost of my mom. Her passing came by way of COVID19, she was in Bronx, NY, alone in her hospital room, I was in LA, my other siblings in other states and no one was allowed to see her. While I’m still unraveling so much, I want to say the words and experiences shared here have provided me with needed and unforgettable tools! There’s a great deal I want to share about going through this book, but in short, this is a must read, especially, for the days we are living in!!! Thank you and thank you for sharing your lost, your vulnerable moments due to your lost.

Touched on many types of losses- Very meaningful

I really appreciate the book. I found it very helpful and I appreciate that he shared very authentically from his own experiences. I recommend reading his book.