Intro

• As we age, there are some decisions which will have to be made that are very difficult, like this.
• Most people make these decisions "on the fly" and decide only once.
• The consequences are better if we take time to think and discuss.

All responses are valid:

• "Hadn't thought about it"
• Head in sand - "Don't want to think about it"
• Responses are likely very emotional:
• expect raw feelings
• acknowledge and validate those feelings
• may dredge up old issues
• Not final conversation, but a start of many.
• Our thinking and actions will likely change over time, and they SHOULD.
• Asking questions is more important than finding solutions. Don't try for resolution.
• This program in itself will likely cause problems and be controversial. Be aware of this and do some "cleanup" and "restoration" at home.

Confidentiality

Opportunity

• We, being unrelated, aren't as biased.
• Family are likely to become very emotional.
• If we lead appropriately, we can help calm the waters.
• We are peers facing the same issues.
• We can get feedback here that we might not get alone or at home.
• Had they lived that long, Jesus would have had challenging discussions about aging with the disciples.
• The Bible does not directly address aging decisions. Biblical characters just age.
• This is a neutral time and place, conducive to discussion and planning, unlike what we will face when bad things force immediate decisions.
• Another venue you might consider are your dinner groups. That is another place to discuss these critical topics.