Okay - this is pumpkin pie and not cake..... |
Hi Everyone,
There's an extremely influential group in North America who is
changing how we view death in the 21st century – Baby Boomers!
As
they begin to confront their own death and dying they are beginning to consider a number of issues ahead; funeral rituals, euthanasia, the right to die with dignity, living wills, and so many more.
We all have questions about death and dying. However, sometimes it’s a
bit difficult to find people willing to talk to, and about this somewhat culturally taboo subject.
But
here’s good news for those of us who like to explore our own feelings and
thoughts through conversation with others. There are some new forums for these
types of discussion causing a stir in Europe and North America - Death Cafes.
Here’s what Lizzy Miles says about Death Cafes which she’s been facilitating in Columbus , Ohio:
“The beauty of the Death Café is that it brings people
together who want to talk about the “taboo” topic of death (and all that it
entails). Many of the attendees reported
in their surveys that in addition to telling their own story, they found
comfort in hearing the stories of others.
The participants who have come to the Death Café events have a wide
variety of backgrounds. The diversity of
experiences, beliefs and opinions contributes to the in-depth discussions that
we have.”
Interesting concept, isn’t it? There is lots more
information about the history and philoshophy behind Death Café at their website
Deathcafe.com .
I
wonder if I’ve got you thinking about some of your own questions
about death and dying. Well, if you’d like to sit down for a coffee, or tea,
and a bite to eat while you chat with other individuals wondering about similar
things, there’s a Death Café coming to Calgary. It’s something new to write on
your social calendar.
You
can find more information about the Death Café coming to Calgary on March 10, here or follow me on Twitter.
In
the meantime, what are your thoughts about green burials?
Warmly
Wendy