Living & Dying Well | Practical Steps (Youth)

 

You're young. Paradoxically, That's exactly why this matters.

You might think end-of-life conversations are for older people. But some of the most important decisions your family will ever face (about a grandparent, a sick parent, or someday yourself) will come faster than anyone expects. Here's what you can do, right now, to be ready.

Talk to your grandparents while you can.

Ask them about their lives. Ask them what they believe about death. Ask them what they're afraid of and what gives them peace. You might be surprised by what they share. And they will remember that you asked. Think about preserving it for future generations.

Understand what your family believes and how it relates to your faith.

Catholics believe that every life has dignity from beginning to end, no matter how sick or dependent someone becomes. That belief should shape what happens when someone in your family gets very ill. It helps to know what you believe before you're in the middle of a crisis.

Learn what “dying well” means.

There's an ancient Catholic idea: memento mori, “remember that you will die.” It's not depressing; it clarifies life’s meaning. When we remember that our time here is a gift, we live better. Consider praying the Memento Mori prayer each morning.

When someone you love is seriously ill, show up.

The most important thing you can do is stay present. Visit. Get off your phones and simply sit with them. Check in with family members who are doing the primary caregiving and ask how you can help. Our culture tells us to look away from suffering. Jesus calls us to stay and be present.