With the End in Mind

i found this to be such a powerful and moving collection of stories

each story offers an insightful perspective about death and the process of dying, with occasional brief, in-between chapters that helped me further examine and develop my own already held beliefs and feelings about what it means to die... and actually, what it means to be alive, too. having read this book, i am better prepared to discuss death and related topics when offering comfort to a friend.

at least every other account of a patient made me cry. the stories are so sad, and yet it's honestly an inspirational, encouraging and life-affirming book. by acknowledging and keeping in mind my impermanence in this world, i am more present, more appreciative, more alive.

a really, really great book.