Gradual Dying and End-of-Life Care, Part 2 (Preparing for the Inevitable #7)

The Bible says in Psalm 146:2-4: "While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being. Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish."

The featured quote for this episode is from Martin Luther King Jr. He said, "No one really knows why they are alive until they know what they'd die for."

Our topic for today is titled "Gradual Dying and End-of-Life Care (Part 2)" from the book, "The Art of Dying: Living Fully into the Life to Come" by Rob Moll.

--- A Unique Opportunity

Unfortunately today, fewer people are caring for more elderly. 

Chronic illnesses mean that dying takes a longer period of time and involves more complicated medical issues. Despite these challenges, the trend toward gradual dying offers a unique opportunity. "For the first time in human history," Kiernan writes, "we can anticipate our mortality." Of course, the fact of death is not new, but our ability to be reasonably certain that it is or is not around the corner is exceptional. Not only can we look our own death in the eye, but we may have years to do so, during which time we can still work, enjoy family or go on a mission trip. Many Christians find in these final years the opportunity to experience the most valuable years of life. 

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