and sensitively. Sometimes I find myself being very matter of fact about it, kind of on the surface. I’m in the habit of keeping my emotions underneath. Then there’s times when I’m very in touch with my fear and sadness, or just realization that sometimes death is not easy to talk about.

I think both frames of mind are necessary. I’m able to go back and forth. At the last Death Cafe I allowed myself to participate (!), something I don’t usually do because I’m busy greeting people, making sure small groups are going ok or just keeping my distance so I can “facilitate” if necessary. But this time it was a smallish group and I decided to let myself go. I found myself having some strong emotions talking about my friend’s death and I kinda surprised myself. Hey, even I need to talk about this sometimes. Really talk, which means really look deep inside and share what I’m feeling. It was a safe place to do that.

I enjoyed Death Cafe more than usual this last time. I hope I can do that again. I think it really was good for me to go to that emotional spot. Not coincidentally, the one-year anniversary of her death is next week. This is a big deal - just like they say.

Peace to you all, and may you find the space to talk about death when you need it.