What is your philosophy about death – Reaction Paper
Reaction Paper
Your paper must be typed. Make sure to number each question and to give the correct number of responses when required. Typically, this paper is 3 – 4 pages in length.
This is a reaction paper. In other words, you are to react to each question by getting in touch with your emotions. As there are no right or wrong answers, feel free to express your emotions as you like.
No one likes to think about death but the reality is that our loved ones and eventually we too will die. The better prepared we are for these events, the more meaningful life and death will be. These questions are designed to help you get in touch with your thoughts and feelings about death.
1a. What is your philosophy about death? In other words, what do you believe happens to us when we die? Does our life end altogether? Is there an afterlife and if so, what will it be like in the afterlife? What will be there? What will we do there? Describe and explain your beliefs..
1b. Why do you hold such beliefs? Are they based on your religion, what parents have told you, your own research, your experiences?
- 2. What is the scariest part of dying? List 3 things you are afraid of and then discuss each one.
- 3. Imagine that your loved one was dying of an incurable illness. List and discuss
5 different things you would do to make the remainder of your time with your loved one more meaningful. Do not say, “I would fulfill my loved one’s bucket list.” Instead, list the specific things you would do and then discuss each one.
- Imagine now that your loved one has died. List and discuss 5 different things you would do to make the service and funeral meaningful for you, your family and friends.
- What are 3 things that you would like to accomplish before you die. Discuss each response.
Complete Answer Guide
Contemplating Life and Death: A Personal Reflection
1a. My Philosophy about Death: I believe that death is a natural part of the human experience. While our physical bodies may cease to function, I hold a belief in some form of afterlife. Whether it’s a continuation of consciousness, spiritual existence, or a transition to another realm, I feel that there is more beyond our earthly existence. The specifics of this afterlife remain uncertain, but I find solace in the idea that our essence persists in some way.
1b. Why I Hold Such Beliefs: My beliefs about death are influenced by a combination of factors. While not strictly tied to a particular religious doctrine, I have been exposed to various spiritual teachings that emphasize the continuation of the soul. Additionally, personal experiences of loss and moments of introspection have shaped these beliefs. It’s a blend of inherited cultural perspectives, self-reflection, and exposure to diverse philosophies.
2. The Scariest Part of Dying: a. The Unknown: The uncertainty of what comes after death is daunting. The fear of the unknown triggers anxiety as I grapple with the idea of transitioning into a realm beyond comprehension.
b. Leaving Loved Ones Behind: The thought of leaving my loved ones behind and the impact it will have on them is distressing. The fear of causing grief and the absence of being there for them is emotionally challenging.
c. Unfinished Business: The idea of not accomplishing everything I aspire to achieve or leaving things unresolved is unsettling. It sparks a fear of unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities.
3. Making Time with a Dying Loved One Meaningful: a. Quality Conversations: Engage in heartfelt conversations, expressing emotions, sharing memories, and ensuring that no important words are left unsaid.
b. Creating Lasting Memories: Undertake activities that hold sentimental value, such as revisiting cherished places, capturing moments through photos, and creating tangible memories.
c. Expressing Gratitude: Take time to express gratitude, acknowledging the impact the loved one has had on my life and ensuring they feel appreciated and valued.
d. Embracing Silence: Allow for moments of silence and reflection, providing space for both the loved one and myself to come to terms with the inevitable.
e. Facilitating Closure: Encourage open discussions about the impending loss, addressing any unresolved issues, and seeking closure for both parties.
4. Making the Service and Funeral Meaningful: a. Personalized Tributes: Incorporate personal touches in the funeral service, such as displaying meaningful mementos, sharing anecdotes, and celebrating the individuality of the departed.
b. Inclusive Rituals: Design rituals that involve family and friends, encouraging them to actively participate in the commemoration, fostering a sense of community.
c. Honor their Legacy: Establish a lasting memorial, whether through a charitable foundation, scholarship, or a dedicated space, ensuring the legacy of the departed continues to positively impact others.
d. Emotional Support: Provide resources for grief counseling and support networks, recognizing the importance of collective healing during the mourning process.
e. Celebration of Life: Shift the focus from mourning to celebrating the life lived, emphasizing joyous moments and the positive impact the departed had on those around them.
5. Three Accomplishments Before Death: a. Personal Growth: Continuously strive for self-improvement, fostering personal growth in areas such as emotional intelligence, resilience, and compassion.
b. Meaningful Relationships: Cultivate and nurture meaningful connections with family and friends, ensuring a rich tapestry of shared experiences and lasting bonds.
c. Contribution to Others: Make a positive impact on the lives of others through acts of kindness, mentorship, or contributing to social causes, leaving a legacy of compassion and generosity.
In contemplating these aspects of life and death, I find a deep connection to the importance of embracing each moment, fostering meaningful connections, and leaving a positive impact on the world. It’s through these reflections that I hope to navigate the complexities of mortality with a sense of purpose and understanding.