On Living

More about the book

As a hospice chaplain, Kerry Egan found that the dying rarely wish to discuss God directly; instead, they engage in the profound "spiritual work of dying." This involves making meaning of their lives, reflecting on experiences, relationships, and unresolved issues. Egan primarily listened to her patients as they shared stories filled with hope, regret, pride, and love. Central to these narratives was the theme of love—love for family, friends, and even self-love, often learned too late. This narrative transcends the topic of dying; it focuses on living fully. Egan's own journey began with a traumatic experience during her first child's birth, which left her feeling emotionally adrift. Her role as a hospice chaplain became a source of healing, revealing a shared human brokenness. Each patient imparted wisdom about courage in the face of fear, the importance of compassion, and the value of seeing life in shades of gray rather than black and white. In this moving and hopeful work, Egan shares the invaluable lessons learned from those she accompanied in their final moments, offering insights into what truly matters in life.