Category Archives: Dying Well

How Dare You Die Now!

Acknowledging the anger or pain of an earlier-than-expected death

“I’m so angry — I can’t forgive him for dying and leaving me,” whispered Amy. “Does that make me a bad person?” Sweethearts since high school, Amy and Don had been inseparable, and married at age 20. Now, the future they had … Continue reading

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Keys to Dying Well

Embracing a new cycle

  There are many “life cycles” in our time on earth — beginnings and endings of our youth, relationships, work, dreams, and ultimately, of life itself. This is my farewell blog, ending my cycle as a writer for “Dying Well.” … Continue reading

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Dying Around the Holidays

Reframing the memory of death on a special day

“Please don’t let him die on my birthday!” “If he dies on Christmas, I will never be able to celebrate again!” It’s hard enough that someone we love is dying. It can seem even worse when they are dying around … Continue reading

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Dementia and Redefining Quality of Life

A mother-daughter journey into the unknown

  The idea of dementia or dependence appalled my mother. For many years, she declared, “If I ever get Alzheimer’s, take me out and shoot me!” Her definition of quality of life was firmly grounded in her ability to think … Continue reading

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Is Anything Scarier than Dying?

Preempt the haunting of the ‘should’ve, could’ve’ regrets

A roller coaster ride suddenly drops 500 feet. A frantic car horn helps you steer your bike out of the way of an erratic driver. Your tumor biopsy comes back negative. All of these scenarios can precipitate a fear of … Continue reading

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Visions as Messages at the End of Life

Opening to the mystery

By the time my mother-in-law was dying, I had been a student of those facing the end of life for many years. They taught me to expand my awareness and be open to the mystery of visions and the messages … Continue reading

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