Peach, Limestone, and Green: Letters and Poems through Loss and Grief

This book is a collection of letters and poems written for care of the soul in loss and grief.

"From the first to the last page, Jerry O'Neill's book attests to the way in which powerful words and silences give way 'to a hidden presence of a deepest, ... most tender knowing.' This collection brings together deeply personal yet universal letters and poems that grab and hold our heart and attention right from the start. On a spiritual as well as visceral level, Jerry O'Neill eloquently explores the essence of time, memory, loss, love, friendship, hope, and faith. Amidst the searing pain of loss, the author both embraces and resists sources of comfort and consistently shows just how alive he is to inner promptings and external stimuli, to the music and shades of life's strangely paradoxical mix of sorrow and joy. Jerry O'Neill's book can provide solace and hope for readers in their own times of darkness."

Geri Giebel Chavis

Poetry Therapist

"Reading Jerry O'Neill's Peach, Limestone and Green I hear soulfulness. These letters and poems are replete with it - a word opens to something sacred, something more. There is the daily struggle and dance between hard reality and transcendent mystery. In this bone honest journey through grief and growth, you will discover what it means to survive loss, and then, thrive, with a heart that is open to grace."

John Fox

author of Poetic Medicine: The Healing Art of Poem-Making

Jerry R. O'Neill received his Doctor of Ministry from Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN. He is currently a spiritual director at Whidbey Spiritual on Whidbey Island, Washington. With the sudden death of his wife, Dr. O'Neill embarked on a contemplative journey through loss and grief. His letters and poems helped pave the way for a new life.