We gathered in one area to begin the process of discussing life and death and everything in between.  Because I truly, did not know how many people were going to attend.  I made arrangements with the facility to move to a larger room in the event there was an overflow of individuals for that space.  Once, we all gathered and introductions were done, as the host I asked the participants if they would like to take advantage of moving to a larger room.  The consensus was yes. I informed the guest that it would be necessary to make a small trek into the larger room. Being that everything was set up in this room, i.e., coffee, tea pastries cups napkins, plates, etc. I asked all of the participants to help make the transition from one room to another, by helping to transfer all of the items into the other room. I preface this by saying that I really did not know how many people were going to show up and that like death, sometimes things happen suddenly and we have to in an instant change, and come out of our comfort zone. Because there was so much life in that room, which was an honor we were going to have to change, and suddenly all of us would need to work together. Just like when death occurs, we often have to work with people we do not know; such as funeral directors, cemeteries and sometimes distant relatives.  We used this opportunity to see how harmoniously we could all work together to have a smooth transition.  Everyone helped in every way that they could, and within 5 min. we were comfortably situated in a larger room, with the food, tea, coffee and other necessities.

 

The large group was broken into small groups and they proceeded to have a variety of conversations at their tables.  I was honored as the host, to be welcomed to sit in on each group for a short period of time.  The reverence and respect that people had for one another was just absolutely incredible.  The stories that were shared, the tears that were cried the laughter that was had, was simply magical.  The age range was from 18 through 84 .The diversity of backgrounds, in education, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual preference, ideologies and so much more allowed for a large spectrum of wealth, knowledge and wisdom to be shared.  Two women, made a 2 hour drive from the Pocono's to be able to attend the event.  Another man met his doctor who had been his attending mothers physician prior to her death.  Another participant shared that one of her dear friends who had died, life was celebrated in the nearby church, which brought tears of joy to her eyes.  There was so much magic and love going on in that room it was simply astounding.

 

the overall consensus of the program feedback forms were extremely positive.  People said that this death Café was powerful, loving, enlightening, comforting, supportive, thoughtful, fun, interesting, inspiring and extremely helpful. As the host I am very grateful, and honored to be a part of such a phenomenal global movement. I cannot wait to see all of you at the next Death Café Philadelphia, a.k.a. Live <3 Laugh event.

 

Sincerely, your host!!

 

Bernadette L Laster

 

www.bernadettellaster.com