I would absolutely join a group talking about death, to get other's insight and to hear what helped them would be beneficial to many of us who have lost loved ones. Death is part of life and we are all affected by it in some way. I lost my hero, my dad 2 years ago and until that happened I had no idea what to expect as far as the grief process goes. I have learned a great deal over these last 2 years. Losing someone so close to you changes you, you are not the person you were when they were still in your life. You grieve the loss for a lifetime, it never goes away, Life goes on and you learn to live around the pain but it is there always and sneaks out from time to time. I will miss my dad for the rest of my life and although I am not in a hurry to join him I look forward to the day I can hug him again. For now I have my mom to watch over and the love of my grandson to keep me going.

I appreciate this article about the 'cafe groups' meeting and discussion of these issues related to death and dying. I recently experienced a personal loss of a very close family member and have discovered how difficult it is to discuss with some. The Hospice organization bereavement councilors and program has given me much relief and a good outlet, but my experience has opened me up to more exploration and deeper understandings. More open discussion is a welcome, much needed and enriching experience.

I think people would benefit from conversing about death, I have been on both ends of spectrum, I have loss loved ones and helped others through the loss of loved ones as odd as it sounds it is a special time for the dying person and everyone needs to know how to help them and themselves through this end of life
process

As far as grief goes. I have found it helpful to think of that person as just being away and I will see them again. Yes, I miss them but they haven't "ended". Life goes on after death.

I believe death is a cycle of life, as is birth. It makes sense that a death cafe would help people. Just like some people find it helpful to attend birth classes, some may want to understand the major step they will be going through or to help someone who will be going through this event soon. On the other hand, some people choose to "wing it" for both events. I've been separated from people I love by death. It made me want to find out more about this thing called death. I have my faith about a life after death, but I found it helpful to read some information about NDEs (Near Death Experience). I know they are controversial in the medical community. One of the best ones I found was a book by the neurosurgeon, Dr. Eben Alexander called "Proof of Heaven". He's a neurosurgeon who was educated at Duke University and taught and practiced at Harvard. Before his experience he didn't believe in an afterlife until he had his NDE. Whether a person believes in an afterlife or not, we will all experience death. This cafe idea can help those who are looking for answers about this unknown. I'm in favor of what ever helps someone on their mystery walk.

I think this is one of the last taboo's in this country. I would gladly join a discussion group. I have my own ideas about the next frontier but would love to know what others are thinking. I honestly do no fear death itself. It's the ride to get there that is scary at my age. That is one of the reasons I have a living will as I have no wish to linger when there is no hope. My mother has been living my nightmare for three years, something she never would have wished for.

GraceTerry, I've been through grief counseling, support groups & anywhere else I can find help. I even joined Grief the Unspoken on Facebook. You're right, though, not everyone wants to hear about my grief but there a lots of organizations out there whom are willing to help. I'm a Hospice volunteer, too.

Krusso, it's really not true that NO ONE wants to hear about your grief. Your family members may not want to hear about it, but others will listen patiently and support you. Go to a Grief Support Group...call your local hospice and find out what they offer and they will probably also be able to tell you about other grief support resources in your community. Many are offered without cost. You do not have to grieve alone. Get some help, then pass it forward when you are ready. Blessings, GT

The reason I don't mind talking about death is because it was always "kept quiet" in my household - shhhhh - you shouldn't be sad, etc., etc. Mom NEVER wanted to talk about Dad's impending passing either & now I'm stuck with my grief that nobody wants to hear about either - it's been four years now get over it! Ugh!

Thanks for this story. I have adapted the principles of Death Cafe and call it "Grief Cafe." After 25 years of offering grief education/grief support/grief mentoring, this format is getting more positive response and attention than anything I have ever offered. Although any significant loss (tangible or intangible) can trigger it, grief is most commonly associated with death and therefore is avoided and denied just as intensely as death...so grief education and mentoring typically meets with HUGE resistance. However, when I call it "Grief Cafe," people are much more open and receptive and say it is a "relaxed conversation for anyone who wants to know more about healthy grief, people show up! I am now training others to Host/Facilitate Grief Cafe. My goal is culture change, from a death-denying culture to a life-affirming culture. I think that is a goal I have in common with those who host Death Cafe, whether or not they think of it in those terms. Blessings to all, GT~

As has been stated by some, "Life, nobody gets out alive." I've told my wife, sons & others in the family that the day WILL come, it's just when. Do what you can now, there may not be a tomorrow.

I would partake in such an endeavor, however it would be in a light-hearten view; at least in the early stages. I wonder what the neighbors in the city of Wyandotte, MI would say to such a gathering?

Thankfully, my Mother is not afraid to talk about death with me, but my three younger sisters avoid the subject. I guess, being in the business I am, caring for the elderly and having experienced being very close to several of my clients and then witnessing their death, has made me more aware of it and I appreciate every moment I have with my dear Mother.

Yes, I could talk about the impending death of my mom - it's going to happen & although I wouldn't want to hear things like "she's w/God now" or "God will give you strength," you can't avoid death & all the grief that comes along with it. So yes, I could join a conversation about death.

I would most definitely join a conversation about death. We shouldn't be afraid of it. There are many people from all walks of life who have stories to tell about end of life that it would be enlightening and informative.