The Common Good
September/October 2010

For Further Reading

by Sabrina Falls | September/October 2010

I very much appreciated “The Art of Dying” by Lisa Sowle Cahill (June 2010).

Print
Post a Comment | Write to the Editor

I very much appreciated “The Art of Dying” by Lisa Sowle Cahill (June 2010). As a harpist and certified music practitioner trained to play therapeutic music at the bedside of sick or dying persons, I have dedicated much of my life and ministry to enabling a “good death.” In my own experience, being with my cancer-stricken 58-year-old father in the last week of his life, as he died in his home under the care of hospice, was an eye-opening, powerful, and blessed experience for our family.

My only criticism of the article is the disappointing lack of citations. Cahill repeatedly points out that the approaches to care of the dying in her article are called for by “God’s plan,” “Christian wisdom,” and the Christian “bioethical perspective,” but without pointing us toward the specific sources. Those who may disagree could easily argue that this “Christian wisdom” is simply Cahill’s wisdom.

Sabrina Falls
Indianapolis, Indiana
Post a Comment | Write to the Editor
Sojourners relies on the support of readers like you to sustain our message and ministry.

Related Stories

Like what you're reading? Get Sojourners E-Mail updates!

Sojourners Comment Community Covenant

I will express myself with civility, courtesy, and respect for every member of the Sojourners online community, especially toward those with whom I disagree, even if I feel disrespected by them. (Romans 12:17-21)

I will express my disagreements with other community members' ideas without insulting, mocking, or slandering them personally. (Matthew 5:22)

I will not exaggerate others' beliefs nor make unfounded prejudicial assumptions based on labels, categories, or stereotypes. I will always extend the benefit of the doubt. (Ephesians 4:29)

I will hold others accountable by clicking "report" on comments that violate these principles, based not on what ideas are expressed but on how they're expressed. (2 Thessalonians 3:13-15)

I understand that comments reported as abusive are reviewed by Sojourners staff and are subject to removal. Repeat offenders will be blocked from making further comments. (Proverbs 18:7)