Chapter 11: "Heart Advice on Helping the Dying" Summary

Sogyal begins by stressing the need to establish heartfelt communications with loved ones or friends or acquaintances who are dying. He points out that these individuals often feel alone, insecure, and confused, and need to relax before true communication can begin. Once trust is established, the relaxed atmosphere can allow the dying individual to breech topics he or she would otherwise not be comfortable discussing. As this occurs, one should not attempt to interrupt the dying individual, but should instead simply listen in sensitivity, warmth, and loving compassion. Sogyal states humor, when appropriate, can also help to lighten the atmosphere. In addition, he notes that dying individuals may misdirect their negative emotions, and one should not take this misdirection personally. Finally, he notes one should not try to convert...