Includes bibliographical references (pages 247-252)

In search of the blessing -- The blessing : yesterday and today -- The first element of the blessing : meaningful touch -- The second element of the blessing : spoken words -- The third element of the blessing : expressing high value -- The fourth element of the blessing : picturing a special future -- The fifth element of the blessing : an active commitment -- Homes that withhold the blessing : part 1 -- Homes that withhold the blessing : part 2 -- Learning to live apart from the blessing -- Giving the blessing to your spouse and friends -- A church that gives the blessing -- Giving the blessing to your parents -- A final blessing