"Dancing When the Lights Go Out" by Roger Greene is an emotional and profound exploration of grief, loss, and the societal taboo surrounding these experiences. When Roger's wife passed away from a rare form of dementia during the height of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, his world shattered. Grief consumed him, leaving him emotionally wrecked and questioning the cultural norms that surround loss. Through his journey, he unveils the stark reality that our society shies away from discussing grief and loss, leaving many ill-prepared to cope with the profound impact of such experiences. Divided into three parts, the book delves into what it means to be human, spiritual, and practical in the face of devastating loss. Roger's Christian perspective adds depth as he intertwines personal narratives with insightful discussions on spirituality, culture, and the complexities of navigating the health and care system during times of bereavement. "Being Human" explores the normalisation of loss as an inevitable part of life, offering guidance on navigating the storms of emotions and finding hope amidst the despair. "Being Spiritual" offers a Christian lens on grief, emphasizing the profound influence spirituality holds within our culture. Lastly, "Being Practical" serves as a guide through the bewildering labyrinth of the health and care system, providing invaluable assistance for those grappling with loss. At its core, this book unveils the heart-wrenching journey Roger and his family endured as his wife succumbed to COVID-19 in a locked-down care facility, isolated from loved ones during her final moments. However, beyond the personal narrative, Roger's aim is clear: to break the silence around grief and loss, equipping individuals and the Church to engage meaningfully in a world where pain is prevalent yet often unspoken. "Dancing When the Lights Go Out" is a call to action, urging society to embrace conversations about grief and loss, to foster empathy, understanding, and genuine support. It's a beacon of hope, aiming to transform our approach to grief and, ultimately, to enable a more compassionate and meaningful existence in a world often shrouded in pain.
