I have said goodbye to all my grandparents and my parents as well, however the passing of my sister in the year of my college graduation was the passing which triggered in me the reality that I was not one of the immortals. I began discussions with my mom about how her faith allowed her to look with unflinching assurance at her arrangements for the end of her life. She inspired me to accept that exiting life was something we should discuss, plan for, and deal with. Her spirituality and joy, as well as her practical Yankee mentality finally overcame my stubbornness and selfishness. We owe it to those we love to discuss and plan for the end of life. The one slide and Engage with Grace fall in step with my beliefs and I am pleased to share this story with others who are thinking about these issues.
-Maureen, 2/14/2011