Dr. Gott: Death should be as pain-free as possible

Dear Dr. Gott: Well, I have done my homework assignment. I have read and tried to digest “The End of Faith” by Sam Harris (W.W. Norton, 2005). It was not easy reading or easily understood, but I am interested in the subject and did get a great deal from the book.

It was scary and did reflect many of my concerns about the narrow-mindedness of so many. I don’t know many who would get past the first chapter, but I, fortunately, have three children and a husband who would get much thought from it and much agreement.

I was most interested in your recommendation of the book in response to the nun. I imagine the response from her was to get her sisters and herself on her knees for days.

I agree with your end-of-life-care philosophy and have so informed my doctor and my family, in writing. Hopefully, the country will seriously consider the laws in Oregon and see the broader side of living and dying with comfort and dignity.

But I doubt they will. People want to be told what to think and believe and will endure almost anything to ensure life in the hereafter. Choosing death can also be a real test of strength.

Dear Reader: Thanks for keeping an open mind. We all want to extend our lives, but at what cost? Do we really wish to live our lives according to some concept of the afterlife that we don’t truly understand?

We each need to have as painless and respectable a death as possible. What comes after is beyond our grasp.

Dear Dr. Gott: We feel we must respond to your article about faith and medicine colliding. The nun’s view that life is a gift from God and only he can take it back is the real truth.

If your view is “strikingly opposed” to hers, then I am grateful you are not my doctor. My life would be disposable to you. What goes around comes around. Who will determine when your life is disposable?

Dear Reader: I hope that I can determine when my life is “disposable.” I certainly don’t wish to leave this decision to someone who doesn’t know my needs and wishes.

When your life nears its end, you may change your tune and demand a more realistic and personalized approach.