You must then post 2 replies of at least 250 words; each reply must incorporate at least 1 scholarly reference. Reply to 2 classmates with encouraging, uplifting verses from the Bible.

Discussion response 1:

The idea and thought of death could be extremely terrifying to some people, since it is the unknown and not many people know what it will be like once they die. As for Christians, death should not be terrifying or something to dwell on in a negative way, because once a Christian dies, then he and/or she are with the Lord and have eternal life with Him. This is definitely reassuring and gives peace to those who may still be a bit unsure about death. Philippians 1:21 state that "for to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (NASB). Living on Earth is to live for Christ and to bring glory to Him. There is a reason and purpose for why each individual is here on Earth. Then follows death, which is a gain because each person will be in the presence of the Lord.

The textbook mentions many points that people have listed more than one concern during their time of struggle and facing death. Some of these points vary from the place they choose to die in to taking care of the financial cares before their departure (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). Many of their concerns are understandable and reasonable, since they do not want to leave without making sure everything is taken care of, but also they do not suffer along the process and before they go (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). Many people who may have different perspectives and beliefs view death differently, but majority of people who are facing death tend to feel the need to take care of things before they die, regardless of their perspective.

I personally am not afraid of death, because I know that I will be with my Heavenly Father. God continues to remind us that there is no need to fear and be afraid; He also provides perfect peace and comfort. John 14:27 state, "peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, not let it be fearful (NASB). Just the thought of my Savior waiting for my arrival is the most special feeling, but His reassurance and constant peace is enough while I remain here on Earth. Not to say that the idea of suffering before I die, is definitely an unsettling thought, but knowing that the outcome and end point will be with the Lord provides the peace I need. I think of Jesus' story and wonder how such a beautiful angel could know such an outcome and His purpose of being on Earth to only be murdered the way He did. I pray that I have at least some of the strength and powerful mindset that He did. It truly amazes me.

References

Broderick, P. C., & Blewitt, P. (2015). The life span: Human development for helping professionals (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Discussion response 2:

Death is a stage of life that can't be avoided. It is the moments leading up to it that can make death easier to deal with. Many factors can contribute to the acceptance of mortality. The goal for many entering the last quarter stage of life is the ability to age gracefully between age 80-90 years old. As humans age, physical changes begin to occur as early as 30. Although accidents are the leading cause of death with adults up to age 45, heart disease and cancer take over as the leading causes of death at 45 (Broderick et al., 2015). After 45 years old, the chances of illness increase yearly (Broderick et al., 2015). Understanding the likelihood of illnesses taking over in later adult years can promote preventative care early in life. Both genetics and lifestyle are determining factors. Establishing a healthy lifestyle can help with aging process. Learning to eat healthy, having an exercise program in place, regular doctor visits, and taking care of oneself spiritual and mental well-being are all important aspects to preventative care. While these are not a guarantee for a healthy life in late adulthood, these aspects should not be ignored. The Bible says, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own (1 Corinthians 6:19, ESV)."

In addition to healthy life habits, happiness plays an important part in well-being and life satisfaction. Just this week while standing in line at Michaels Craft Store, a Time Magazine issue stood out, as the cover was devoted to happiness and finding it. Humans long for happiness and seek to find it through work, relationships, and spirituality. Studies have shown that money will increase happiness, however, not indefinitely (Broderick et al., 2015). Social relationships can have a big impact on well-being. The ability to share life with family and friends serves as great comfort and support. Friendships and relationships can be formed at work, church, and within community.

While retirement sounds like an exciting milestone in life, it can be a difficult adjustment for some. Some find it difficult to adjust to the amount of free time available after the initial first few months after retiring. The lack of daily structure can be daunting for a person that's been used to going to work on a daily basis. Therefore, devising a plan for retirement is beneficial. Finding activities that a person can get involved with not only will help to build friendships and relationships, but can promote well-being and life satisfaction. Taking classes, volunteering, starting up a new hobby, spending time with family, and being a part of a church or social group can make retirement enjoyable. The "Golden Years" are meant to be a period in life where one can celebrate accomplishments and live out the final years of life in happiness.

Along with health and happiness to guide a person into late adulthood, wealth might be considered a major component as well. Although a designated dollar amount can not be defined as every individual is different, preparing for retirement and later years in life financially will take the burden off of other family members to financially support a person. For some, having that peace of mind knowing that they won't be a financial burden to others is important. For others, the financial stability allows for the ability to maintain control of life (Broderick et al., 2015). Financial decisions earlier in life will be important for later life. Finding a career with retirement benefits is always something to consider in early adulthood, as maintaining a traditional savings account at the bank can be challenging at times.

Facing death does not have to be a fearful time, unavoidable as it is. Being able to live out the last quarter of life gracefully is an attainable goal, given one prepares themselves for it with a positive lifestyle in the years prior. Recognizing the value of health, happiness and money in earlier life stages can only be beneficial for late adulthood. Additionally, maintaining and seeking out spirituality brings support and comfort in later years as well. Also, knowing and having confidence that being with the Father in Heaven after death should come as even more of a comfort to Believers. "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20, ESV)."

References

Broderick, P. C., &Blewitt, P. (2015). The life span: Human development for helping professionals (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
Holy Bible: English Standard Version (2011). Wheaton, IL.: Crossway.