The Light Connection -- October 2008 Books
Sacred Living, Sacred Dying;
Sacred Living, Sacred Dying
A Guide to Embracing Life and Death
At some time in our lives each of us is faced with the fact of our own mortality. In my own life, I have had the privilege of being present in different ways to the passing of loved ones who left this life with a legacy of love and grace. I've also been close to some who've gone out kicking and screaming. If, like me, you would prefer to walk out of your life in peace and beauty, I recommend Sacred Living, Sacred Dying as a beautiful, gentle and thorough guide to the many aspects to be faced as we each prepare to leave this world.
The book opens with the author's own highly personal life story, related with relentless honesty tempered by compassion and understanding. It is a story I found moving, a story that made it clear how immensely qualified she is to have penned a book of this sort, and a story that empowers me to look with new eyes upon aspects of my own past that I normally choose to keep under wraps.
And then it ends with another of her very personal stories, the story of her second near-death experience.
In between: Chapter I is an invitation and detailed guide to sharing—via writing, taping, filming, whatever modality you choose—the things that have been special in your life: your childhood; your family members, friends and lovers; your career; your spirituality; your hopes and dreams; your wisdom and gifts. In Chapter 2 you are encouraged to plan the final celebration of your life and what to leave behind for others to remember you by. Chapter 3 is down to brass tacks about decisions, funeral arrangements and legalities, with solid information about options you may well not have considered. And Chapter 4 will help you supply those you leave behind with all the information they will need upon your death.
Sharon Lund's life has brought her intimate experience with every facet of dying, which in turn has enhanced her appreciation for the beauty of living. I thank her for sharing so deeply and compassionately with us, for offering us this book as a creative resource.
—Chiwah
