“Promoting Peace in the Midst of Transition”

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…a time to be born, and a time to die…”  Ecclesiastes 3:1

Many are afraid to speak of death and dying.   Yet, each of us will face that moment of transition one day.  At Amity Care Hospice, we believe our calling is to “promote peace in the midst of transition” ~ this incredible transition we call “death.”

How do we promote peace in the midst of such a transition?

“You would know the secret of death.  But how shall you find it unless you seek it in the heart of life?”  ~ Kahlil Gibran

It is normal to fear the unknown.  At Amity Care Hospice, we recognize and honor death as a natural part of life.

“If you would indeed behold the spirit of death, open your heart wide unto the body of life.  For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.  ~ Kahlil Gibran

In order to promote peace in the midst of this powerful transition, we start by being at peace ourselves.   One person remaining at peace can foster an atmosphere of calm that permeates and helps to soothe and comfort the patient and family members.

In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond…For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun?  Kahlil Gibran

Another way to promote peace is to educate our families about what to expect.   Knowledge is power.  When we have an idea of what to expect, we breathe a little deeper, and begin to relax.  When we relax, we think more clearly.  When we think more clearly, we are more present and can make better choices.

“And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered? “  Kahlil Gibran

Of course, peace also comes from knowing that there is someone to call if any questions or problems arise.   Our Amity Care Hospice staff is ready, willing, and able to offer the support our patients and families need in a time of crisis.

“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.  And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.  And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.”   Kahlil Gibran