Life and death are not two distinct states of being.Each is an integral part of the other,and to understand one we must understand both.Death education,therefore,is a process whereby we explore our relationship with life.
We emerge from a study of death with a heightened awareness of our own mortality and,hopefully,with a new resolve to use our time on Earth creatively
and wisely.The greatest loss is not that we will die,but that so many of us go
through life mechanically,unable to appreciate life's joys,sadness,and mysteries.
For all of its physical,emotional,and spiritual pain,dying presents a singular opportunity for growth and discovery.Like soldiers on the eve of battle,terminally ill people often experience a heightened sensory awareness,
relishing sights,sounds,tastes,and smells that they had never before noticed.
Freed from everyday chores,some dying people use their last months to put theiraffairs in order,enjoy the company of family and friends,heal
shaky relationships,or visit places that they have always wanted
to see.Indeed,all of us,by conquering our fear of death,become
more able to take risks,try new experiences,and savor each moment
of our lives.
