Welcome to Room for Dying
Hello!
I’m so glad you’re here. Below is a little bit about why I created Room for Dying. If I can answer any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at RoomforDying (at) gmail.com.
Yours in wonder,
Michelle
Why I Created This Project
I created Room for Dying because I am genuinely curious about the stories that matter most when people reflect on their lives, and how a thoughtful examination can create a sense of peace, spark a shift in direction, or cultivate a meaningful refocusing.
Unlike the factual obituary found in newspapers or the therapeutic sifting of a life review, The Obituary invites participants into a sanctuary of introspection and personal narrative. Here, reflection transcends mere chronology, urging you to explore the rich fabric of your experiences, relationships, and aspirations. In this space, you will summarize the interwoven events of your life that have influenced who you are, with the goal of shaping—or reshaping—your legacy.
There are no right or wrong answers, only insights that illuminate your mindset today. Should you revisit this exercise at a later date, your answers may evolve. The key is to remain open, curious, and free from self-criticism.
My Journey with Death Acceptance
In 2015 I wrote my first obituary. It was part of an art workshop assignment designed to help participants find clarity within their studio practices. Resistant to such elaborate promises, I gave it a half-hearted attempt and soon forgot about it.
I wrote my second obituary in 2021. That very real death was so painfully suffused with denial that even the experts could barely whisper their wisdom. Over many sleepless nights, I wondered: How did an utterly natural part of life become so taboo?
Three more family members would die that year. Feeling unmoored, I remember my inability to navigate all that was unfolding. Still, writing my father’s obituary became both a buoy and a healing balm.
To enhance my inquiry, in 2023 I completed intensive 40-hour End-of-Life Doula training. In small breakout groups we asked big questions and gave each other the space to sit with silence, uncertainty, grief, and fear. It was powerful.
The next time I completed my own obituary exercise, I set an intention to remain open and curious. My reflections flowed more easily and a deepening awareness began to surface.
Over time, a delightful flash of insight took hold: as I welcomed mortality into my life – as I made room for dying – the true gifts of the obituary exercise were unlocked.
The Obituary is
• an art project
• a shared offering
• a pause for reflection
• not mental health counseling