How to die

My advice on how to die is the same as on how to live: acknowledge reality, accept what you cannot change, be aware. Acknowledging death is a beneficial state of mind. Awareness of my finality gives intensity to every moment. Awareness of death helps to be grateful for simple things.  

An hour ago I was puttering in the garden while spring is in the air. At first, house and garden were still in the shade. As the sun rose, patches of sunlight appeared and eight crocuses popped up amidst the winter debris: white, purple and yellow. A feast for the eyes.

After an hour I got pain in my back and I had to stop. That made me sit at the computer and share my feelings. Five years ago, I would have continued working. I was always busy, always trying to be useful. Now, as I can do less and have less obligations, I have more time to be aware of my finality and live in the moment. Accepting death is life-affirming. Moreover, death becomes welcome when physical facilities are dwindling. Physical limitations and recurring medical appointments are annoying. Sleeping and peeing have become difficult. Getting dressed is a chore. Reading the newspaper is depressing. Maintaining a good mood has become a challenge, but a bad mood prevents to live in the moment. Complaints are a burden for oneself and everybody around.  I am lucky. I am still able to function: drive the car, go shopping, read, write, play chess. Death after 80 is no drama. On the contrary. Would you chose to go to a party that never ends and that you cannot leave when you want? 
Moreover, my death has beneficial effects for my family and for society. Family members do not have to worry about me  Less people means less global warming. Confronted with the extinction of homo sapiens, euthanasia and birth control have become essential values. Talking about death shouldn't be taboo. Acceptance of death is the ultimate celebration of life.  

"... alleen is leven leven als het tot de dood ontroert. " Boutens

April 2022