Nearing Death Awareness

The dominant theme of the text is encapsulated in the newly coined phrase Nearing Death Awareness. The text theorizes that individuals who undergo a prolonged dying process are often aware of many metaphysical aspects of their own death. For example, they often know the time and circumstances of their own deaths hours or days before they die. Many dying people have metaphysical experiences that transcend their ability to easily discuss, even with intimate partners. Thus, an entire range of psychological conditions arise through the process of dying. These situations are often complex, always emotional, and ultimately resolve in death. The authors argue, however, that such situations are not only normal, they also offer a remarkable opportunity for the dying to evaluate their life and for those who remain behind to be strengthened by the death of a loved family member. This theme of Nearing Death Awareness...