Ear of the
Heart
Reflections, guidance, and gentle stories for listening deeply — to yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you.
An End-of-Year Reflection: Living with Death in Mind
To live with death in mind is not to dwell on sorrow, but to live with deeper awareness, to recognize that every moment, every relationship, and every heartbeat exists within a greater cycle of becoming, ending, and beginning again.
What Does It Mean to Die Well?
The phrase “dying well” can stir up many different feelings. Some may imagine a peaceful passing surrounded by loved ones. Others may think of dying without pain, with dignity, or in a way that honors their faith or values. But the truth is, there isn’t a single definition of what it means to die well.
Writing Your Own Legacy Letter for End-of-Life Planning & Support
When we think about planning for the end of life, our minds often go straight to legal paperwork: wills, advance directives, powers of attorney, insurance policies. These documents matter and they protect loved ones from confusion and ensure your wishes are honored.
But they don’t tell the whole story of you.
How to Start the Conversation About Your End-of-Life Wishes
Talking about death isn't easy. But talking about what matters to you before you reach the end of life is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself, and for those who care about you.
This post is here to help you start that conversation—gently, clearly, and with confidence. Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or supporting someone you love, there is wisdom in beginning this dialogue long before it’s urgently needed.
What Is a Green Burial and Why Might It Matter to You?
When you imagine your legacy, you might think of a peaceful ceremony, a favorite song playing, or loved ones gathered in a cherished place. But one question many of us haven’t considered is this: How do we want our bodies to return to the earth? For a growing number of people, the answer lies in green burial—a gentle, environmentally conscious alternative to traditional funeral practices.