Talking About Death: From Silence to Legacy
Imagine walking into a café to meet your friends. Everyone is so excited to talk about the latest fun stuff you always talk about. Then, all of a sudden, you begin talking about death. How are they going to react? Of course, they are going to stop and feel sad and awkward, right? That is the reason why nobody talks about death. It usually brings gloom, fear, and misfortune. Sometimes we would pause and stay silent rather than lengthen the topic no one wants to linger on. But the reality is that loss is part of every life, and more often than not, it is the silence about death that makes the burden isolating. It is through the gentle opening of these conversations that we slowly erase the weight of the inevitable. When we openly talk about the pains of losing a loved one, we then discover the love and connections that make life meaningful.
Discussing death helps us recognize its hidden blessings. Isn't it always a victory after a person's suffering has ended? We may not sense it during the onset of grief and the separation anxiety we feel after losing our loved one. But when the smoke clears and you are left alone with yourself, you look back on the hardships and how your loved one has left a mark on you. You now reflect on how this person has made your life meaningful as well. That is when you begin to understand that your relationship has now evolved on a different level, a deeper spiritual level.
When we accept the loss and freely talk about the pain, we then begin to realize the importance of our remaining time here on earth. We begin to think more of our loved ones. We start to think of more bonding moments and how to make them feel more loved. Speaking openly provides an emotional release, reduces fear, and deepens connections. These conversations now lead to opportunities to prepare. We now consider planning ahead, expressing our wishes, and reflecting on how we can care for our loved ones even after we are gone, and even something as simple as sharing stories of who we really are and what we have contributed to others. These conversations have now shifted from dwelling on endings to ensuring peace of mind. Leaving behind a legacy of love and clarity.
Approaching the subject does not have to be overwhelming. It can begin with gentle listening, asking open-ended questions, and allowing the conversation to flow naturally. It does not need to be one heavy, huge waterfall. It can be trickles of water drops, like the refreshing rain. It can feel light and natural, speaking not through fear but from care. Ultimately, discussing death should evolve into a beautiful celebration of life, deepening love, and ensuring our presence continues through the memories and legacies we leave behind.
