Signs of Approaching Death and Lessons in Living
Understanding the Signs of Approaching Death
It is natural for humans to wonder about the end of life. While some individuals may be more attuned to the subtle signs that indicate the body is starting to shut down, many are not. Six months before natural death, the body stops absorbing prana, a concept related to life force energy, from the breath. However, proper sensitivity is required to detect these changes. This sensitivity cannot be cultivated if one is filled with fear or divided within.
The Uncertainty Surrounding Death Predictions
Personal intuition regarding impending death can be misleading. For instance, my uncle claimed he would die in six months, only to live for two more years. Therefore, it's important to approach such claims with skepticism. People often misinterpret these signs and make assumptions based on their own perceptions. In such cases, it's better to maintain a critical stance and approach the information with an open but guarded mind.
Medical Signs Observed Before Death
Medical professionals, including nurses, observe various signs that indicate a patient's imminent passing. For example, when a patient is unconscious, they might exhibit a gargling sound during breathing, which is a common sign of impending death. Some patients may suddenly sit up in bed, appearing to converse with angels, dead relatives, or Jesus before passing on. These occurrences are not uncommon and highlight the mysterious nature of death's approach.
Acceptance and Preparation
Ultimately, everyone dies, and this is a fundamental truth of life. However, some individuals are fortunate to live longer lives. Personally, I have faced significant health challenges, including chronic kidney problems and a heart attack, yet I managed to stay vertical well into the age of 89. Good doctors, technicians, nurses, and healthcare coverage are crucial to maintaining quality of life during these moments.
Personal Struggles and Reflection
Despite the inevitability of death, the initial question remains: why were we born in the first place? Reflecting on my own life and my relationship with health and well-being, the Bible notes the concept of a time to live and a time to die. While death may be set, the duration of life can be influenced by our lifestyle choices. For instance, cigarettes were a significant part of my life for over four decades, but it was not until I stopped believing in their allure that I was able to free myself from their grip. This experience taught me that we can indeed make choices that will shorten our lives, or we can choose to live a healthier, more fulfilling existence.
Lessons Learned
Diagnoses with a prognosis of "going to die shortly" can be profoundly impactful. When a friend faced this challenge, she prepared her affairs, had her family gather around, and knew she had a week or two to say goodbye. This scenario underscores the importance of preparation and making peace with one's own mortality. Unless you are on death row, it is generally not possible to predict the exact time of death ahead of time, making it essential to cherish each moment and maintain a positive outlook on life.