This is the second part of a series, "The Hours Left" where we are talking about death, dying and living. I lay claim to no fancy credentials or degrees as I share my thoughts and opinions on this subject. Your opinions, your thoughts and your life experiences are what makes this conversation worth having and whether or not we agree, I believe that it's worth having. What you say, may change the life of the one listening.
So, in my previous post, I asked 'How do we live like we're dying" and I told you that I'd share my thoughts in a few days. But, here's the thing: I've had to re-think, re-write and reconsider my answers (even though I had already written the draft post). This subject is so deeply important that, I believe, lives can be changed and vague or shallow answers simply will not do. Everything within me feels compelled to speak to this with honest compassion, transparency and, yes, even spiritual guidance but, my thoughts and answers have not come quickly, nor easily.
I wish I could say that this conversation will conclude in two posts (like it was supposed to) but I don't think this is possible. The truth is, I want us to talk about this. I want us to share deeply. I want to hear your heart, your questions, your answers and your concerns and the limitation of two posts feels incomplete. Perhaps, it'll be an on-going "Causerie". Maybe, we'll talk a little about this now and then again at another time. I don't know. Or, perhaps, it will turn out to be one of those conversations where we'll soon find out that "less is more" and we'll move on. That's the thing about friends and conversations, right? You just don't know how they will begin or end.
So, let me share with you something that happened the other day.
On Thursday, I received a call informing me that an old friend was in the hospital. "M" has a horrible, debilitating disease --- that with its progression, will eventually end her life. Given the option of a surgery that could prolong her life (though, she would endure long-term minor discomforts and around the clock medical annoyances) or face imminent death, "M" said to me with tears rolling down her face, that she doesn't know what to do.
These are the two questions I asked her: 1) What's the real reason why you don't want the surgery? 2) Are you ready to die?
How do you live like you're dying?
1. Know that what you believe about death and eternity is true. What you believe about death will often determine how you live and as we say in church, know that you know, that you know, that you know. Your life, and ultimately your death, will depend on it.

My friend is holding on to her faith, family and friends to help guide her through this journey.