It may be somewhat inconsiderate to say that you don't believe in such things, if this person is perhaps deriving some comfort from the possibility, as they approach the end of their life. On the other hand it may be difficult to be less than honest with them. I'd be interested to know how you dealt with it, if it's ever happened to you.
2006-10-25 05:58:15 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I have prayed on my knees with dying friends who were believers. They knew full well that I am a Humanist and don't believe in prayer, but seeing to their needs was more important in those moments. I respected their beliefs and acted accordingly, as I think any human with compassion would. A few months ago I delivered the eulogy at a Primitive Baptist funeral. It created no conflict in me, as the point was to honor the deceased and her sincere beliefs.
2006-10-25 06:00:43 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 5⤊ 0⤋
Are you so wicked that you can't even let people die in peace.I am a Christian and I am sure you will probably report me and that's OK. but God has given me a word for you.If you don't repent of this evil,when you die,and it will be sooner than you think,you will cry and beg forgiveness and He won't even hear you,you won't be comforted.I recently spent a few days in a Hospice unit,my aunt was dying.It was about 3:00 AM. and I got to thinking about how sad the nurses must be,no one in this place ever gets better,what a depressing job.I went down to share my thoughts with the nurses and was quickly informed that the people that have excepted Christ receive the ultimate healing here.One nurse who did not profess to be a Christian said she could tell who were the Christians because they died so peaceful.I asked about the ones who do not know Christ and was told that they are afraid and refuse to be comforted.I know my words sound harsh but my prayer is that you will hear them and repent.I know you will probably not receive them but I really fell that they are from the Lord,and I do want to obey Him.
2006-10-25 06:27:34 · answer #2 · answered by don_steele54 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I've never had that opportunity, thankfully. But I would keep my mouth shut and do the tactful thing -- I'd listen because they were sharing their comfort, and nod my head. Knowing my family though, if there was strength left in my family member's arm, they'd smack me upside the head for pretending, tell me it was more disrespectful than just telling 'em that they're babbling about things I don't agree with, and die in a huff of annoyance.
I have a very strange set of people that I share genetics with closely.
2006-10-25 06:02:33 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I remember when my grandfather was dying, he swore to us all that my deceased grandmother was standing beside him. He talked to her, he talked to God....
Who am I to impose my beliefs on anyone, especially on their death bed? My grandfather was comforted by the thought of my grandmother being there. To try to diminish that would have been cruelty in the extreme.
I rarely, if ever, enter into conversations concerning religion. That is reserved for this forum. What is important to me is that I make it through this life and not intentionally hurt another. That has meant biting my tongue on several occasions, but I consider that a small sacrifice in the grand scheme of things.
2006-10-25 06:04:40 · answer #4 · answered by . 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I respect everyone's beliefs. I do not try to push mine on others. Just because I don't believe in God, doesn't mean everyone else shouldn't. I also don't believe in Santa Clause, but my kids get gifts from him every year. I don't think not sharing your beliefs with someone is not being honest. If belief in God and heaven is what helps people accept death, who am I to tell them anything else?
2006-10-25 06:02:39 · answer #5 · answered by butterfliesbrown 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've never had a relative mention God on their deathbed. I think that they were more concerned with the fact that they were dying. I suppose if they did, I wouldn't bother to correct them.
2006-10-25 06:03:23 · answer #6 · answered by theswedishfish710 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, when I worked at a nursinghome, and also where I work now with rape victims. I don't judge unless people are tellling me I'm going to hell, so who am I to say they're wrong? People turn to different things at different times, and whatever gets them through it or helps them be at peace with themselves is what's important.
2006-10-25 06:02:39 · answer #7 · answered by Allison L 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, and more than one experience. It was wonderful thing to witness. I will never forget. i was a nurse for years, and took care of people close to dying. It is truly wonderful to know, heaven really exists. If you want to hear more-email me.
2006-10-25 06:01:58 · answer #8 · answered by Kerilyn 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I never contradict someone who is turning to religion in a time of crisis. They have enough to worry about without my undermining them. In situations like that, I think it's more important to be kind than to assert the truth as I see it.
2006-10-25 06:10:00 · answer #9 · answered by Let Me Think 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
People have the right their own beliefs. I respect that with anyone, not just relatives who are dying.
2006-10-25 06:00:54 · answer #10 · answered by Brainiac 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋