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I think it would advance our culture light-years if we didn't hide death but joyfully participated in it with our families and friends.

Carole Powell

 

Garnett

Garnett Hundley

. . . The challenge is to embrace the experience of dying as a time of continuing healing – not of the body, but of anything in our lives that feels unclear, unkind, unfinished, or unforgiven. I have witnessed some miraculous healings, and what appears to be ultimately important is forgiveness, relationship, love – and that's all . . .

Jim

Jim Carbone

. . . I see [my tattoo] and remember the basic truth of my existence on the planet – people are the reason we are here, not the stuff we manage to collect. I look forward to seeing my teachers again as we all come around for another dance around the wheel.

Erica

Erica Boyd

. . . Larisa believed there was a better place where she was going after she died. Each time I touch my shoulder or someone asks me about my tattoo, it gives me hope there is a better place and everybody I love is there waiting for me.

Glenda and Larisa

Glenda Brooks

. . . Larisa's diagnosis with primary liver cancer was devastating. As heartbroken as I was, I felt compelled as a mother and a friend to provide her the most loving, caring and supportive environment. Although difficult and exhausting, Larisa's dying process became a sacred and healing experience. My challenge was to accept the situation and just be in her presence—sitting with her, allowing her to guide the conversation, really listening without controlling or judging our emotions. It was her time, not mine. . .

The contributors, ages 18 to 64, were individually photographed by Eugene photographer Kent Peterson. Each black-and-white image is paired with the contributor's words contemplating life and death. A common bond of human compassion and understanding unites the diverse group, which comes from across the United States. They include a teacher, a former presidential appointee, a dog groomer, a professional singer, an attorney, a gender illusionist, and a grief counselor.

© Continuation Publishing Group. All rights reserved. This web site or parts thereof may not be reproduced without the written permission from the publisher. Photography © Kent Peterson. Web site design by Vrijmoet Design, Inc.

 

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