What is “Death Over Dinner”?
Death Over Dinner is a unique dining experience designed to challenge societal taboos surrounding discussions about death. This innovative concept brings people together over a thoughtfully crafted meal, creating a space for facilitated conversations about end-of-life matters.
Conversations about death can be inspiring and thought-provoking. They touch on the very essence of life, prompting us to contemplate its meaning, our values, and how we live our days. Exploring this topic often leads to deeper reflections on mortality, spirituality, and the human experience. While initially challenging, they may offer deep insights that can reshape our perspectives and enrich our appreciation for life.
Our aim is to foster a comfortable environment for attendees to engage with the topic. Through these discussions, we hope they discover a newfound peace about death and develop meaningful connections with their fellow participants.
Why is it important to talk about death?
Conversations about death are incredibly beneficial for supporting people in grief and understanding the wishes of our loved ones. When we openly discuss death, it creates an environment where individuals feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts, fears, and desires related to end-of-life matters.
For those grieving, having open conversations about death fosters an environment where they can freely express their emotions and receive the support they need. It allows us to offer empathy, listen attentively, and provide the necessary comfort during difficult times.
Moreover, these discussions enable us to have proactive conversations with our loved ones about their preferences regarding end-of-life care, funeral arrangements, or other important decisions. Understanding their wishes helps ensure that their desires are respected and carried out when the time comes, relieving potential burdens and uncertainties for both them and their families. By normalising conversations about death, we create opportunities to show support, provide comfort, and engage in meaningful discussions that can ultimately lead to better preparation and understanding for everyone involved.
Are there specific topics covered, or is it a freeform discussion?
During the event, the facilitator will offer thoughtful prompts on personal values, end of life preferences, and living legacies. These prompts act as friendly guides, striking a balance between structure and spontaneity resulting in more meaningful discussions. It's like having a flexible roadmap that keeps the conversation focused on essential topics while leaving room for the authentic and diverse experiences each participant brings to the table.
How do I prepare for a Death Over Dinner conversation?
Prepare by taking a moment to reflect on your own beliefs and experiences surrounding death, dying and bereavement. Before the dinner, the host may share an article, video or audio materials to set the stage and guide the conversations.
Conversation prompts will be provided during the event, but it's beneficial to think about your own values, fears, and wishes regarding end-of-life matters. Approach the conversation with an open mind, and be ready to share. However, please feel comfortable to opt out of discussions. Your participation, whether through sharing or active listening, contributes to our collective experience.
Why attend a Death Over Dinner?
Attending a Death Over Dinner event holds value for several reasons. It offers a safe, comfortable space to discuss end-of-life preferences, ensuring clarity and respect among participants. Whether navigating a loved one's imminent passing, pondering the loss of a pet or expressing personal wishes, the setting is conducive to open and respectful conversations.
It opens us up to the sharing of deep emotions that may go unexpressed, reducing the chance of future regrets. By addressing the universal fear of death with sensitivity, we can openly discuss and offer support, fostering understanding and coping mechanisms within a compassionate and empathetic setting.
“We often put forward this myth that we don’t want to talk about death, but I think we just haven’t gotten the right invitations.”
Who should attend a Death Over Dinner?
Death Over Dinner is open to individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their motivations or experiences, whether they are contending with loss (human or animal), or are engaged in contemplation regarding their own mortality.
It is crucial to note that this platform is not designed for therapeutic counseling nor bereavement support. Emphasizing inclusivity, participants share their thoughts, fears, and wishes, fostering connection and dispelling societal taboos around death. Death Over Dinner welcomes everyone to reflect on life's inevitable conclusion within a contemplative environment.
Is Death Over Dinner only for those with specific cultural or religious beliefs?
Death Over Dinner welcomes and respects individuals from all cultural and religious backgrounds.
The guided conversations are designed to embrace diverse beliefs and practices, encouraging participants to share and learn from each other's perspectives. Death Over Dinner seeks to create a respectful platform where individuals from various cultural and religious contexts can engage in meaningful discussions about death and dying.
Find out more here:
Death Over Dinner Convenes As Hundreds Of Americans Coordinate End Of Life Discussions Across U.S. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/death-over-dinner_n_3762653
What happens when death is what's for dinner? https://youtu.be/4DT0aMfFtuw?si=HpbMNQOtIQ9t1_Mb