why suicide?
In France, a woman’s request to die was denied by the court. Suffering from a rare, irreversible condition, the woman has a malignant tumor that causes pain and permanent deformity (warning: graphic content). As a result, she petitioned to have the “right to die” through the administration of lethal drugs.
Without weighing in on the “right” or “wrong” of this woman’s request, what makes a person decide that death is better than life? Here in Oregon, physician-assisted suicide is legal for the terminally ill. The law allows physicians to prescribe life-ending medicine when patients are: mentally competent, able to self-administer the drugs, and certified by two physicians as having less than six months to live.
Why is death a better option for some people than life? While I don’t agree with the decision, I can imagine why the decision might be made. I believe a decision to choose death is based on a viable concern — fear, lack of control and/or dignity.
What are some of the concerns? Pain — a slow, agonizing death. Loneliness — will I be alone as I face death? Death without dignity and respect — hooked up to life support and life is dragged out when it could/should be done. No control — strangers, doctors or family members who interfere because of their own agenda.
What alternative does the Culture of Christ offer? The opportunity for Christ-followers to present a different perspective and solution is enormous. What can we say and extend as hope to others? I believe God would have us step up and come alongside (with love and compassion) those who have these fears. This means we don’t let people face death alone and we’re willing to face the hard questions without be concerned about having neat, simple answers.
Personally, I’ve dropped the ball on talking about mortality, medical intervention and ‘end-of-life’ issues. These are discussions that should be taking place in the church, if not in the pulpit, at least as conversation topics in an appropriate setting.
If you’ve experienced or are experiencing a circumstance like this, as one who is terminally ill or have a loved one in a difficult situation, how have you handled it? What questions or concerns come to mind for you?
