Quakers to discuss assisted dying
Quakers have taken a further step towards discussing assisted dying in the UK.
When Quaker representatives from across Britain met at the weekend some suggested it was time to work for a change in the law in relation to assisted dying in the UK. Quakers are being encouraged to further explore the issue of assisted dying, and dying and death more generally, recognising that there are differing and deeply-held views.
Quakers seek that of God in each person and in the world around them. One wished to ensure the debate is faithful, respectful and loving.
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A failure to unite is not a failure. There is a value and a beauty in being able to find neither for nor against. But what love requires – and to ask questions.
- Meeting for Sufferings October 2019
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Meetings shared how much they had benefitted from encouraging everyone to discuss their wishes with those closest to them. And to make the best of the life they have.
Listening deeply, the meeting heard from Win Sutton whose daughter Jan wrote these lines:
"I have talked with my family and friends about dying for several years. I have often said that dying is 'a gift that I will give myself'. My loved ones are aware of, and support, my choice to die at a clinic in Switzerland. I feel that now is the right time for me to die.
“I would like to die because life is a constant battle with symptoms and I am worn down by this. More and more my life is taken over by daily tasks such as eating, dressing, and showering, leaving little time for anything else. More and more my days are focused on the basics; just existing rather than really living.
“I still love life very much," she said. “But I am very tired of trying to make life enjoyable. I would like to die now whilst I still love life, and it is clear to my friends and family that I love life."
The minute of the meeting said, “We do not necessarily expect to come to unity; a failure to unite is not a failure. There is a value and a beauty in being able to find neither for nor against. But what love requires – and to ask questions."