The Four Things That Matter Most: A Book About Living
Death and dying author and palliative care physician Ira Byock’s life affirming book about
how to heal what can be our troubled relationships to the people we love, especially at the
end of life (Free Press, 2004).
Wapner’s role: Editor
From the Acknowledgments:
“Kenneth Wapner is a master craftsman of words; a surgeon whose knife leaves no mark. Kenneth’s
keen appreciation of the rhythm, of narrative transformed this manuscript and made it all it could be.”
"This beautiful book, full of wisdom and warmth, teaches us how to protect and preserve our most
valuable possessions--the relationships with those we love. It shows that the things that matter
definitely aren’t "things," and how to empower your life in the right direction."
--Dr. Stephen R. Covey, author, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
"The 4 Things That Matter Most provides simple, insightful words and stories that move the heart and
the soul. Dr. Byock shows us a graceful way to nurture relationships and heal those that need
mending."
--Zorba Paster, M.D., author of The Longevity Code
"A tender read I highly recommend -- The Four Things That Matter Most offers simple but solid
solutions for healing our complex and fragile relationships -- wisdom that will surely enrich our lives."
--Maggie Callanan, co-author of the bestselling Final Gifts
"For anyone who believes that years of therapy are required for transforming relationships with others,
this book will come as a pleasant surprise. Great wisdom has always been simple - that is why it is
elusive - and great wisdom is what this book contains.”
--Larry Dossey, MD, author of Healing Words
"The Four Things that Matter Most is a book of common sense wisdom that has the power to
dynamically change your life. It is a pleasure to recommend a book that encourages you to transform
the quality of your life in simple ways that actually work."
-- Caroline Myss, author of Sacred Contracts and Anatomy of the Spirit
"Ira Byock's compassionate and important work in the field of dying has given him the four great
treasures of love and freedom that all of us can use throughout our life. This wonderful book opens the
doors to these jewels of compassion"
-- Joan Halifax, founder and director of Ojai Foundation and founder, Upaya Foundation