Death and Dying

REACTION PAPER #2

Your paper must be typed. Make sure to number each question and to give the correct number of responses when required. Typically, this paper is 3 – 4 pages in length.

This is a reaction paper. In other words, you are to react to each question by getting in touch with your emotions. As there are no right or wrong answers, feel free to express your emotions as you like.

No one likes to think about death but the reality is that our loved ones and eventually we too will die. The better prepared we are for these events, the more meaningful life and death will be. These questions are designed to help you get in touch with your thoughts and feelings about death.

1a. What is your philosophy about death? In other words, what do you believe happens to us when we die? Does our life end altogether? Is there an afterlife and if so, what will it be like in the afterlife? What will be there? What will we do there? Describe and explain your beliefs..

1b. Why do you hold such beliefs? Are they based on your religion, what parents have told you, your own research, your experiences?

2. What is the scariest part of dying? List 3 things you are afraid of and then discuss each one.

3. Imagine that your loved one was dying of an incurable illness. List and discuss
5 different things you would do to make the remainder of your time with your loved one more meaningful. Do not say, “I would fulfill my loved one’s bucket list.” Instead, list the specific things you would do and then discuss each one.

4. Imagine now that your loved one has died. List and discuss 5 different things you would do to make the service and funeral meaningful for you, your family and friends.

5. What are 3 things that you would like to accomplish before you die. Discuss each response.