My Mother is 96 years old now. She is in the hospital and doing poorly. The doctors are asking should they hook her up to machines to keep her alive. Something to think about on the serious side. Would it be selfish to say yes do that or would it not?  She has had a long productive life and should she suffer because we cannot let her go? She does not hear well, cannot see well and cannot move around on her own. Most of the time she cannot talk to us and not sure if she knows if we are there. Here is a peom she wrote for us to express her feelings.

Weep Not at My Passing

Weep not at my passing,

Just remember that I have lived;

And in my brief span of life,

I have taken and had to give

Love, friendship and understanding,

Time, energy and hope,

Humor, wisdom and integrity,

Whatever the emotional scope.

I brought life into the world

Through the miracle of procreation;

Offspring to take up the cross

After I have reached my destination.

Bruised by pain and suffering,

Comforted by those who spoke,

Accepting what could not be changed,

Trying hard to adjust and cope.

But weep not at my passing,

A far richer life has come,

And rest for my weary soul

In my eternal home.

I think she loves us very much and has tried to prepare us for this time. I have come to terms, with Mother's help, to face the future after she has pass on to that better place. She has made a difference in this world and I am sure there are a lot of people that would say that is true. She will never really be gone because she is always with us and will always watch over us. I will have to get back to you on this.