Blurts & Spasms

In answer to Quora question: "My mother will die soon. What are the last things I should do with her?"

So many wonderful answers. Here are some small additions:

1) Be brave.

2) Listen from the heart, and be comfortable with silence.

3) Be as willing to receive from her - to let her do things for you, to share herself with you, to bless you with her presence - as you are to give of yourself.

4) Let your love for her radiate out from you without restraint.

5) Be yourself with her - be authentic, honest and open - and allow her to be herself with you.

6) Allow enough space and time for joy and laughter to happen.

7) Let kindness be your guide with everyone in her presence, have patience with those who may not know how to be or what to say, and give others the space and time they need to be with her.

Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. You cannot be strong for her if you do not have compassion for yourself.

9) Consider carefully if there is anything important you wish to share with her or ask her, and find a moment to do that.

10) Apart from that last point, be willing to let her take the lead when she needs to regarding what to do or say.

11) Hold her close while you can, then let her go when you must.

12) Cherish these final memories you will make together.

I wish you all the best.