Two years ago in May, I visited a hospice (a terminal care hospital) in Calgary. It is located in the basement of a nursing home. I was astonished by the spotlessly clean and cozy environment of it. This hospice has 26 wards as well as a study, a living room, a kitchen, a dining room, and a garden, just like a home. On the day of my visit, 25 wards were being used, so the director showed me into the only empty one. When standing there, I felt serenity and calm. I could feel every second of time passing. The director told me they hold baking parties from time to time, so the residents and their families can enjoy their last moment together. Some residents choose to die in the garden under the sunshine, so they design and decorate the lawn and garden elaborately.
When I was back from the hospice, I’ve determined that sorrow, fear, and anxiety would never be a part of my life. When dying people struggle to enjoy the beautiful things in this world, how can healthy ones waste their time in negative feelings?
