It's a so and so

For as long as I can remember, I have supported the concept of a dignified and to an extent chosen departure from life, if desired by an individual. I'm not supporting the tragic death of young people confronted by loneliness or a relationship failure, but the choice of those with serious and unresolvable questions about the usefulness of their own living. I know lots of people don't agree with that, and I am certainly mindful of other opinions and indeed dangers. But as I get older I realise that we are all on a path to the same destination and our experience on that path is critical. Nothing in my experience makes me want to bring my life to an end, but I can imagine situations where I might well change that view. My 93 year old mother was blindingly clear about it all, as long as she was getting some, limited and constrained as it might be, pleasure from life, she was in it. Her peaceful passing when she decided she wasn't, was utterly logical. She wasn't going to get any better, she inevitably would get worse. Faith, family, love and support can all sustain in difficult times. But I still respect and honour the rights of intelligent and competent people to make decisions about their own lives.