Don’t do anything stupid

A teenage hand holding a senior's hand in a hospital.

This is the piece of advice that Jenny gave to my daughter in the last hours while she was still responsive. What motivates the dying to confront us? To make blunt observations, to ask awkward questions, … Maybe because as we die a great clarity overcomes us. All filters fall away and we see ourselves and everyone around us exactly as we are. The words of the dying are not a prophecy. They are simply subconscious instincts and desires finally given comprehensive form. Often for the first time. And always direct, merciless, and urgent.