PODCAST INTERVIEW: BJ Miller Palliative and Hospice Care Expert

“Working in the field of death and getting the opportunity to observe death on a consistent and deeper level has many benefits on how to live life to the fullest. Not to make light of how emotionally-laden this work can be, but most of these workers get a sweet hit – that paying attention to this zone of life is very nurturing. It’s like discovering a secret that very few people know about, which is knowing the fact that you are going to die can nurture you to live a lot better.â€

 Being aware of our finitude makes us a lot more likely to be kind to ourselves, as well as others. One of the most important things BJ has learned from witnessing so many deathbed moments is the importance of avoiding regret. This is done by being very aware of, and careful of, the decisions we make. Equally important, is that one becomes much better at reconciliation and forgiveness. Witnessing the seriousness and the finality of death brings an awareness of what is truly important in The Living Years. Not squandering time, and taking friendships and relationships more seriously has been one of major changes BJ has made in his life due to his witnessing death so often. What that means is basking in the moment, whether in conversation with friends or whether outdoors in nature, witnessing the beauty of the world, being in the moment and, above all else, experiencing the moment with gratitude, amazement and wonder is extremely important. Equally vital, is letting go of anger and grudges. Those two negatives never add anything of value to The Living Years. Meditation, mindfulness, and self-awareness are very helpful in dealing and eliminating anger and holding grudges. What these three things allow you to do is just become aware of when you are doing those two things, and the potency of awareness should never be underestimated. All changes begin with awareness.