A model of consolation

Consolation is needed when a human being suffers (i.e. feels alienated from him- or her-self, from other people, from the world or from his or her ult imate source of meaning). The aim of this study was to illuminate the meani ng of consolation. Tape-recorded narrative interviews were carried out with 18 professionals from various sphere,. The transcribed interviews were int erpreted hermeneutically A model of consolation is outlined in a drawing. I t states that the mediator and the receiver of consolation must become read y for consolation before it can take place. To be ready means to be present and available. Availability means expressing suffering and listening respe ctively, and thereby opening up for communion and consoling dialogue. Commu nion brings about contact with the sacred dimension that human beings share and thus with goodness, light, joy, beauty and life. Consolation involves a shift of perspective and an experience of meaning in spit of suffering.