[Ailist] Re: Questions to Celebrate Life

[joanchad10 at aol.com]

Dear Bill --

We know this is a time of loss and yet you already realize it can also 
be a time of true celebration - as you say a way to share your love. 
Sounds like you have opened your heart to find a wonderful way to 
celebrate those who have passed. We are writing a book, Healing 
Conversations at End of Life, and would love to share the story of your 
celebration in it. Please let us know when you have done it.

There are already some wonderful questions that people on this list 
have shared with you . Some additional thoughts: The two universal 
questions that people need answered if they are to die in peace are Was 
I loved/Did I love well? and Was my life meaningful? You might begin 
asking people and recording the answers to: How has Jean shown you her 
love? Tell a story about a time when you felt most loved by Jean. What 
did she do that made you feel so loved? What difference did Jean make 
in your life?

You might consider including her. Even if she is close to death hearing 
the answers to some of the stories might provide a loving send off.   
You might interview people in her room even if she appears to be in a 
comma. It is surprising what people can continue to hear as they near 
death. Having her in the room, noticing even slight responses as people 
tell their stories will certainly add an immediacy to the rememberances 
and your legacy of her. You might also be helping to send her off with 
special love stories.

What a precious gift you are giving to all of Jean's family and 
friends.  Blessings, I would be glad to talk with you.  207.232.5766.

Joan Chadbourne and Tony Silbert
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