A Message for the End of Life
Hospice expert David Kessler speaks directly to the dying, drawn from his book The Needs of the Dying. He tells them death is not an ending but a continuation, that their love travels with them, and that they should let go of anger and fear to rest into their breath.
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I've been with hundreds of people as they're dying, and people often ask me, what do I say to them? I finally wrote a message for the dying in my book, The Needs of the Dying. So I'm going to share that with you right now. As you hear this, you may be getting your last months, days, or hours here on Earth. You have traveled on a long and winding road on this journey that we call life. Many philosophies teach that what you feel and experience in the last moments of this life might be the needs of your next one, of your new life. None of us know what will happen to you from here, but if you look deep inside, deep inside your soul, you will know that birth is not a beginning and death will not be an ending. If you think back, you remember that you never felt as if you didn't exist before you were born in this life. Rather, you felt that you have always existed and always will. That is why this death will not be an ending. You may not have life as you know it once you die, but you will continue. You will take all of our love, all of your memories with you on this journey. What you have experienced will not be lost. Neither will your life be lost. Whatever you may feel about your life, that was your life. Try to accept it exactly as it was. No better, no worse. As this life draws to a close, it's time to let go of your anger, as well as your loved. You have worked, you have worried, you have driven hard. You have loved and laughed, you have been angry and disappointed. It is now time to rest, time to relax. There's nothing else for you to do. There's no other way for you to be. If you find yourself becoming frightened, rest and relax into your breath. Your breath will take you where you need to go. And know that those around you who may be crying are doing the best they can. And know in your heart that you will leave a part of yourself behind with everything you have done, with everyone you've ever met, with every life you have touched. And you also will take a part of us with you. You were born for a reason. You were born whole and innocent, beautiful and worthy, and you will die that way. You have spent time and followed time, and now time will be no more. You will go to a place where we already are. You are carried off in the miracle of birth and you will be carried off in the miracle of death. All that we are, all that we have felt for you, all the love that was given to you will be your cushion on this journey. Now you will begin. I wish you love and peace and a safe passage. It is now time for you to return home. Let me know your thoughts on this, and if you'd like to hear more stories and insight, please follow for more.