Yes, it is normal to talk about death and dying. Unfortunately, we often avoid the topics until they interrupt our lives. That needs to change. Death and dying are not only a normal part of the life cycle, they are a common eventuality. The article How to Talk About Death and Dying (Queensland Health, How to Talk About Death and Dying, www.health.qld.gov.au) addresses the normalcy and commonality of death and dying in this way:
We all have different relationships with death, shaped by our personal experiences, religious or spiritual beliefs, culture, family history and current life circumstances. The one thing we all have in common is that dying and death will be a significant part of our lives. The simple fact is that we are all going to die, and most of us will experience losing people we love and care for during our lifetime.
The sacred texts of many religions echo the normalcy and commonality of death and dying for humans. An example of the echo is found in the book of Ecclesiastes. Located in the Hebrew Bible, Ecclesiastes 3:1- 2 states, “A season is set for everything, a time for every experience under heaven: A time for being born and a time for dying (Tanakh).” The text suggests humans have a common life span. Humans live and humans die. There is no exception.
If death is a normal part of the life cycle and we are all going to die, including people we love and care for, it is time to stop avoiding the conversation. Tuesday (October 26) at 7 p.m. my colleagues and I are hosting Death Cafe in Schewel 231. Part of our Cake Chats: Conversations with Our Chaplains series, Death Cafe will provide students an opportunity to wrestle with death and dying, and enjoy some cake and coffee. The goal is to provide an informal space to start the conversation.
If you are a student, please join us. If you work with students in a staff or faculty role, tell your students about Death Cafe and encourage attendance. If you have questions, please reach out to our office.
It is normal to talk about death and dying. Let’s start talking!
Katrina