Abstract

A Holocaust survivor whose mother collapsed and died only moments after they both registered as survivors, a death row inmate who has reclaimed his life through Buddhism, and a mother whose daughter was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer two days before her thirtieth birthday, among others, offer their perspectives on death and dying in this thought-provoking volume. Contributors from all walks of life share their thoughts on carefully selected writings, images and artwork that most accurately express death to them. Describing their unique experiences, they reveal that, beyond the heartache and the mystery, death teaches us all invaluable lessons about how we live our lives.

Offering comfort, reassurance and varied insights into death, loss and its impact on life, this collection is for anyone who might be coming to terms with this inevitable destination. Royalty proceeds from the book will be donated to Ashgate Hospicecare, North Derbyshire, UK.

We experience death in many ways before facing it in our own lives. Whatever will support us to consider death more honestly and life more appreciatively is to be deeply valued. Rosalind Bradley's beautiful collection offers both those gifts abundantly.
Stephanie Dowrick, author of Seeking the Sacred
Rosalind Bradley was born and raised in the UK but has lived in Sydney, Australia for over 30 years. She has taught in Papua New Guinea and is currently a Council Member of Eremos, a forum for exploring spirituality in Australia and a volunteer biographer at a local hospice. Rosalind has previously edited two anthologies of inter-faith prayers, A World of Prayer and Mosaic.
A powerful book on the truth of our mortality, and the richness that can be derived from our encounter with death.
Roshi Joan Halifax, Abbot,
Upaya Zen Center
A Matter of Life and Death provides thought provoking reflections from a wide range of people whose lives have been deeply influenced by encounters with dying, death and loss. Their insights into these sensitive, often taboo, subjects are inspirational and uplifting - highly recommend reading for all who work in end of life or bereavement care.
Dr Marilyn Relf, Bereavement Care Lead, Sir Michael Sobell House, Oxford and Chair National Bereavement Alliance (UK)
I rejoice that death has become less of a taboo subject in our conversations. In this timely book you will discover precious wisdom and heartfelt insights from people of all walks of life...As I have listened to these voices, I have found reassurance and enlightenment. I know this book will offer the same gifts to you whether you believe in a transition to a new life or contemplate the beyond with some uncertainty. I commend it highly.
from the foreword by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

This is a powerful and timely book on the largely taboo subject of death, viewing it as an intrinsic and unavoidable part of life.
Bradley provides Readers with a useful resource to assist in their duties of taking funerals and memorial services and in caring for those who mourn. Highly recommended.

John Hazel
The Reader
A thoughtful collection of personal stories and perspectives on death as a defining part of life. Beautifully told and cleverly presented. A unique offering on an ultimate truth - you will be inspired, intrigued, informed and touched by the diversity and authenticity of the contributions.
Professor Christine Bennett AO, Dean of Medicine,The University of Notre Dame Australia
Dying conjures many stories, many feelings, many fears. Rosalind Bradley brings together the thoughts of the eminent, the well trained and also those who have personal experience with the dying. These stories explore the inspiring, the meaningful and sometimes troubled ideas that everyone will have about death.
Professor Richard Chye, University of Notre Dame, Australia