Facing the Final Mystery: A Guidebook for Discussing End-Of-Life Issues Now

Facing the Final Mystery is the one book we need to prepare for end-of-life issues now, before a crisis occurs. While many books provide specific information about the various aspects of dying and death, Facing the Final Mystery describes the importance of learning about these issues early, and also provides information and resources to make this journey easier.

In many books related to dying and death, there is one sentence that says some version of, "If this conversation had taken place earlier, the problem/disaster/tragedy might not have occurred." Facing the Final Mystery takes off from there, describing what we need to talk about, how we can have the conversations, where we can gather information, and why these discussions will bring benefits and blessings to each of us, our families, and our friends.

Americans in general do not want to talk about dying and death. Facing the Final Mystery helps us understand the importance of talking now, to accomplish the necessary tasks early, and to embrace our dying in a way that can only enhance our living. Facing the Final Mystery helps us make the most of our remaining days, weeks, or decades, and brings grace and gusto to this difficult but important time of life, a time that every one of us will experience.

Laura Larsen is a graduate of UCLA School of Nursing. She has been conducting workshops based on the material in Facing the Final Mystery since 1998.