Death & dying

Let's just get those words out there - death and dying.  That's what I'm here to talk about.  Perhaps if they are used enough it will help to desensitize them.  If I could have any supernatural power it would be that I could magically change the feelings that are evoked when these words are spoken.  I wish planning for death and dying would spark the same interest as planning for a wedding or a shower for a new born baby.  Honestly though, I get that this expectation may be unrealistic and that "Rome wasn't built in a day".  Still, I feel like my purpose in this life, my vocation, is not only to care for dying patients and their families but to change the perceptions our country has on death and dying.

I am here to tell you that we only have one life to live, therefore, only one opportunity to die.  There is so much beauty in the dying processes.  Imagine what it would be like if you spent the same amount of time planning for your death as you did planning for your wedding.  Think of all the places you would go, the people you would see, the things you would say, and the joy you would experience.

What I don't understand is that everyone knows that we are going to die one day.  This is not secret. Talking about death and dying doesn't make it come any sooner.  It simply affects the manner in which we do.  I don't know about you but, if given the opportunity, I want to have an amazing death.  I want to be surrounded by friends and family. I want quality of life to always be my focus.  If I am faced with a life limiting illness and treatment can no longer offer cure, I don't want to waste time on measures that prolong life but sacrifice quality. I want the opportunity to review my life accomplishments, prepare my mind, body and spirit for life eternal, and celebrate the life that God blessed me with here on earth.  I want to lay on the beach and feel the sun on my face.  I want to snuggle with my dogs and make love to my husband. I want to eat my favorite foods, drink wine, and laugh out loud. I want to tell my friends and family that I love them over and over and over again.

I challenge anyone reading this blog to consider what you would do if you were faced with a life limiting illness that was not curable.  How would you want to live the rest of your life? What does quality of life mean to you? With whom have you shared the answers to these questions?