“It’s not that I’m afraid of death, I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” – Woody Allen, actor and director
Death and taxes. The only two surefire things in life. Though some Vegas regulars and sports fanatics may preach differently. And while Uncle Sam keeps us whining and strategizing about the latter, our fear-filled culture grants only mumbled tones of “passing-on”, in private settings and intimate moments. Funny thing, though, is that unlike taxes, we cannot evade death. At some point reality face-jams us with the irrefutable fact that we’re all immortal. And the more fear the passing of time, it seems to tick even faster, scooping away youth and presumed opportunity. Be it old age, a fluke accident, or valiant yet failed fight, we’ll all exit stage left at some time and in some fashion. Of course, you can choose to personify its coming via the grip of the Grim Reaper or the loving embrace of the grace of God. Of course, you can avoid the topic in the safety of blissful ignorance. Or you can invite the comedy, celebration and conversation about the, literally, life-changing event of death. It might just add more humor, appreciation, understanding, and life to your life.
Copyright 2000-2009 by Kimberlie Dykeman
Pure Soapbox available nationwide online and where books are sold.
A portion of the proceeds of all book sales is donated to LIVESTRONG.
Kimberlie, I loved that you called out our culture’s taboo around the concept of death! Having worked for hospice and now as an author and therapist in private practice with an expertise in grief and loss, it was encouraging for someone else to say, “Hey, death happens!” I hate that it does, but I know this, ignoring this harsh reality can sometimes land people in their local watering hole with their named permanently tatoo-ed on a bar stool. Hardly a productive place to be. Good for you!