Book Review: 'The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance' by John Trent and Gary Smalley

                                                                       
In this revised and updated edition of 'The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance',  the authors present the gift of providing the "blessing" for our children.  This concept is built upon Genesis 27 from the Bible.  The principles in this book could also be used to strengthen other relationships, such as marriages and friendships. 

In this book, Gary Smalley and John Trent suggest the gift of the blessing containing five elements:
*Meaning of touch
*A spoken message
*Attaching high value
*Picturing a special future
*An active commitment
The authors believe that, when given the gift of these five elements, children will become stronger, more well-balanced adults.  Each of the five elements is broken down for better understanding , with examples of the anticipated positive outcome, as well as examples of homes that withheld the blessing.  Everything is explained thoroughly, including steps for a written blessing, with frequent scripture references.

John Trent and Gary Smalley have created a website, www.TheBlessing.com, with more resources.  Throughout the book and on the website, they ask parents to pledge the Blessing Challenge, which is 1 million adults pledging to bless others. 

'The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance' was a very well-written book that could many lives.  For me personally, the five elements of blessing were not new information.  It was a great reminder though, of making sure to impart the blessing daily to our loved ones, and of the scriptures that support the blessing.  I would recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their relationships, especially with their children.  Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.