Valued in Life and Death

Margaret’s life and Thursday’s funeral are still on my mind. The family have written: ‘A dear mum, nanny and great-nanny, she was deeply loved and will always be missed. All who knew her will remember her kindness, her naughty sense of humour and her love for her family.’

Margaret was much loved and valued in her life. She’s still remembered, much loved and valued in her death.

US President Donald Trump’s comments, saying that NATO troops, including those from Britain, stayed ‘a little off the front lines’ during the war in Afghanistan have resulted in in fury and significant backlash.

Speeches from UK political leaders, and interviews with veterans and the families of military personnel, all condemned his comments as insulting, appalling, and deeply offensive. Those who served, many still carrying physical and mental scars, aren’t valued in their life; the 457 UK troops that were killed aren’t valued in their death.

Hamlet, deeply depressed, says:

What a piece of work is a man, how noble in
reason, how infinite in faculties, in form and moving
how express and admirable; in action how like
an angel, in apprehension how like a god: the
beauty of the world, the paragon of animals—and
yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust?

Previously he’s said that he can see beauty in nature but can’t appreciate it. Now he’s saying that man is wonderful, his capabilities endless. He’s certainly valued in life. But in death? Just dust – valueless.  

Dame Cicely Saunders, remembered for her work in terminal care research and her role in founding the hospice movement, said: ‘You matter because you are you, and you matter to the end of your life. We will do all we can not only to help you die peacefully, but also to live until you die.’

Her emphasis on the importance of high-quality palliative care demonstrated that each individual should be valued in life and in death.

Musing… Valued in life and death… Margaret’s, Donald’s, Hamlet’s and Cicely’s perspective.