Death, Dying and the End of Life discussion

I'm new to the group, although I'm not new to experiences of birth, life and death. As I age and because my health could be better, I often find myself wondering what it is that I want to learn before I die. Life is a richly rewarding experience from which we can only glean a few nuggets of truth, beauty, happiness and horror. What might I miss out on? Are there books I should read to help me find more satisfaction out of my experience of living? These are some of my questions.

I highly recommend that you read a few, David, just based on my own experiences with these books (I'm no authority on anyone's experience but my own). The following are not listed in any particular order.

The Book on the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are

The Complete Conversations with God

Handbook to Higher Consciousness

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

"It's OK to Die"

This is a really great conversation to have in this discussion group, and I thank you for starting it. I hope others will add their own favorite "learn before I die" books.

My thought is that I might want to reread these periodically, as I haven't opened several of them for many years.

As far as what one might "miss out on," now that reading list is endless -- HA! Read, read and read some more, wherever your heart might lead you. Books give us the opportunity to travel far and wide and more deeply within our own knowing.

Another suggestion I have for you is to write The Book of Your Own Life. Your family and friends will be so pleased to get to read your story, and you might enjoy that adventure, being a writer-author, as much as I do. Just one thought... ;)

Thank you so much for the list. It's a start. I'm currently reading Proust's "In Search of Lost Time." I have a target date to finish of December 31, 2015. It's a serious challenge. I'm reading the "new" Penguin editions, which are down to 4 volumes and a little over one million words! So far I've found many magic words and moments that do indeed serve as beautifully decorated, small and sometimes large, windows on existence. It's fair to say that reading Proust is a way that leads us down a path to a better understanding of life. After Proust, I'm certain to find another such work or maybe I'll read one of your suggestions that I'm certain will point the way to the next adventure.

I've given much thought to the notion of writing "The Book of My Own Life" but I don't believe it's in me yet or that I'm competent to pull off a testament to my own life. Although I'm a voracious reader and I have an above average understanding of and the ability to use the English language, I still feel a novice when it comes to the true subtleties of the language and proper usage.

Nevertheless, I'm certainly happy I stumbled on your group and I know it will be a great source of information as well as inspiration.

I will be apologetically prideful and recommend my book, From Sun to Sun:A Hospice Nurse Reflects on the Art of Dying.
It's written without religiosity or dogma. It's simply about lightening up on ourselves, not waiting to express or show love and love shows itself in countless ways; even if it isn't pretty!
All the best,
Nina Angela McKissock, RN
www.ninaangelamckissock.com

Thank you Nina. I went to your site, where I did sign up for a couple of things. I read your posts, which I found to be perfect. I'll get a copy of your book and give it a read. You have a warmth that shines through your writing.

I like all the points you mention in your comment, Nina. :D Thank you for sharing here. Your book sounds great.