We Avoid the Word Death at All Costs
We avoid the word "death" at all costs -
we don't say people “die” but rather we say that they “pass”
We seem to have a fascination with death. People may state that they are comfortable with death or they avoid the topic at all costs. I point out that gore and death are a big draw to movies and TV shows. Have you also noticed that traffic can be backed up for miles because people are rubbernecking - staring at bad car wrecks. But we won’t talk about death and our own lives or the lives of folks we love!
The ongoing healthy and helpful discussion of death isn’t limited to funerals, law offices or hospitals. It is hard to have such a conversation when you are sad or overwhelmed. Having conversations about death – about YOUR death – about your hopes and fears – can be liberating.
Talking about death should serve to bring us closer. It can remind us what really matters and help prepare us for conversation when a crisis arises. There are 122 medical schools in the USA and yet only 8 have mandatory end-of-life training.
Most people share that they want to have “the conversation” but are afraid to bring it up. 30% of people told they are dying of cancer end up having their first conversation about dying with a stranger.
also
We have countless jokes online and in person about nonstop phone calls at all hours begging you to extend your car warranty - even when you don't own a car! But we don't talk about death. AND we all have death in common!
Upon death, even if your legal paperwork is completed will there be problems? Tell others about your wishes. Make changes as often as you want but be sure your loved ones know. Problems arise when loved ones disagree. Money can do that to wills.
You don't have to discuss death daily. Yet you need to face that we all will die. Give yourself a rest sometimes but remember that each day is precious.