It seems a very heavy topic and one that you may not want to read, but it is so important. We are all on a spectrum towards the inevitable, death, whether we believe it or not! We make so many plans and carry so many silly grudges, that when death presents itself, those plans and grudges drop into their rightful place, irrelevant.

In some cultures and religions, the notion of death is kept at the forefront of one’s mind. It may seem a little morbid, but it is living with the understanding that we maybe snatched away at any moment. And from that understanding, arises a way of life based on kindness, love and compassion.

Ordinarily in life there is a progression from birth to childhood, to adult life, middle age, old age and finally an exit. But this is not always the case. In our work as doctors we regularly treat young people who are faced with a cancer and who have to confront death at a much younger age. I have patients in their 40’s and 50’s who have non curable cancer and will inevitably succumb to their disease. We are always asked, “how long do I have doctor”. We never truly know but we often get an inkling based on how strong we perceive the life force to be.

It’s interesting that doctors are not educated in matters related to spirit or life force. However this concept is part and parcel of Eastern cultures. In India we call it the Atman or Soul. As doctors we see our patients becoming weaker and weaker, but it’s not just a physical weakness. It’s like the electricity is gradually being turned off.

So what do you do when you know your time is up? First and foremost you must start with practical matters. Day to day practicalities must be sorted and resolved. You need to let go of grievances. It’s never too late to say sorry for actions intentional or unintentional. It’s important to do so and it’s important to forgive those who have wronged against you. As the spirit fades and becomes weaker, all our fears and subconscious issues arise. It’s best that they are dealt with and finished before the final days and hours.

You need to start letting go of possessions, friends, family and even your own body as this is a transition that you have to make on your own. They can support you, but you have to fly alone. Equally, it is just as important that family and friends allow you to depart in a peaceful way. Is there an afterlife? Who am I to say, but having worked in the field of palliative care and spent time with dying people, I am convinced that “people die as they have lived”. I do not know if anything lies beyond, but I suspect that something continues. I’m looking forward to finding out!

For all of us, death is inevitable. So live well, be kind, be happy and have no regrets. We don’t know when our battery will run out!

In Health and Wellness

Ranjit