I found these beautiful words a while ago. I do not know the source of where they came from but I think they have been distilled from this poem “Life is like a train ride” by John A Passaro

I love what the analogy expresses about life and death and wanted to share it with you.

 

THE TRAIN OF LIFE

“At birth, we board the train and meet our parents, and we believe they will always travel by our side.

As time goes by, other people will board the train; and they will be significant i.e. our siblings, friends, children, and even the love of your life.

However, at some station our parents will step down from the train, leaving us on this journey alone.

Others will step down over time and leave a permanent vacuum.

Some, however, will go so unnoticed that we don’t realise they vacated their seats.

This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells.

Success consists of having a good relationship with all passengers requiring that we give the best of ourselves.

The mystery to everyone is: We do not know at which station we ourselves will step down.

So, we must live in the best way, love, forgive, and offer the best of who we are.

It is important to do this because when the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who will continue to travel on the train of life.
I wish you all a joyful journey.”  Unknown

 

As an End of Life Doula, it is my honour to be there on the train of life for the part of the journey that occurs before the station arrives.

To be able to assist the person to step down at the right time.

To provide the support and guidance that enables the doors of the train carriage to open and an easy step onto the station platform to occur.

To enable the person to stand on the platform and wave the train of life goodbye.

AND

To also offer support to those on the train to relish in the beautiful memories left in the empty seat and to say goodbye as the train of life continues its journey.

 

About Nicolette

The End of Life Care provides resources, information and guidance which enables you to understand the End of Life process and instils a sense of confidence and control.

Nicolette is an End of Life Doula, who provides a compassionate approach to life and death.

She provides care at every step of the journey, allowing everyone involved the opportunity to feel supported, nurtured and safe.

Her purpose is to provide a heartfelt engagement with life while providing a compassionate, supported and informed approach  to death.

Nicolette provides specialist non-medical care to those who are dying and offers emotional and practical support to the caregivers.

She creates a transformative experience for all involved by providing a safe and sacred holding space that leads to peace of mind and a sense of security.

Nicolette is a qualified Social Worker and Art Therapist.

 

If you would like some guidance or more information contact Nicolette for a 15 min chat.

She will be able to provide the appropriate information that you are seeking and answer your questions to enable you to know what support is available for you.