Death is multifaceted. It’s not just the fear of non-existence. It’s the fear of suffering, of our loved ones suffering, our bodies and identities being disrespected, and the the burden of our end of life that might weigh on the people we love. Fear of death is not indisputably self-centered; it can be a compassionateContinue reading “Fear of Death”
Category Archives: Articles
Death Cafe
I’m excited to bring an open forum in which to talk about death, dying, and grief. I’m planning on holding my first Death Café on the 12th of March, in Oak Ridge, TN at place and time to be announced. Yes! There will be tea and CAKE! Deathcafe.com for more information.
A Year of Firsts
I wrote this poem to honor Marshall Nechtow after he died.
When I will sign a DNR
I’ve given this a lot of thought. I’d like to think I’m brave enough to wait until I’m given a fatal diagnosis, backed up by a second opinion. Or if I were given a diagnosis that would cause me to be a burden on those I love most in the world. I’m sure there willContinue reading “When I will sign a DNR”
Going With Grace/NEDA Proficient
A Willow’s Lament
A poem about death: Lose track of the wind On the mirror surfaced lake Christening the sky With clear intent Where is the coffin But sky and earth The heavens, the ornaments And yet in the kitchen, Where life is rebirthed There gathered the women Pottery deep into breakfast Reassuring one another The calm centerContinue reading “A Willow’s Lament”
Labor of Dying
Download the PowerPoint presentation called The Labor of Dying found at:
Purification
Originally posted at: https://maremartell.com/2021/09/04/purification/ Perfumed purification anointed my skin fragrant with absolution My brethren Blessed sisters; Heart-bound lovers Spirit-kin My blood baptized in the cistern of love Forgiven to be human The elation of redemption damp against my brow Dancing in broad circles Breathless with abandon the release of blissful beauty
Death Doula
I first became intrigued with death and dying about the same time I decided I wanted to write eulogies for a living. From there, and a failed business later, I trusted that I’d find my calling to the vocation where I feel the most at ease. I became a professional PCA (Personal Care Assistant). I’dContinue reading “Death Doula”
Light of Love 