This afternoon I went to a caregiver’s support group. One of the people talked about the recent death of their mother. They were happy to be with her during her final moments. Several people then shared about their own experience with losing a loved one. They had very similar sentiments – that they were blessed to be with their loved one at the very end. They talked about what a beautiful time it was for them and their family. In these cases, all knew that the end was near and they were able to set up hospice and a support system. I thought about a priest I knew who talked about his experiences with people who were dying. He said it was the most intimate part of their lives as they prepared to meet God. Perhaps that is what makes it “beautiful” even in the midst of suffering and sadness. I never know what I am going to hear when I attend these groups, but I always walk away with more knowledge and insight and plenty to ponder and pray about.

I Found God today in honest conversations about the beauty of death.