Lessons from the Threshold: How Facing Mortality Influences Voting Decisions

Lessons from the Threshold: How Facing Mortality Influences Voting Decisions

In the fervor of an election year, most voters are inundated with candidates’ promises, flashy commercials, and divisive political rhetoric. However, amidst this chaos lies an often-overlooked viewpoint—what the dying have to teach us about life and the values we uphold during the voting process. Working as a hospice social worker and death doula for over three decades, I have been privileged to learn from individuals at the end of their lives. These impactful encounters shaped my own beliefs and ultimately informed how I engage in civic duties. The dying have not only imparted wisdom but also regrets that carry weight in the political arena.

My journey began in 1994 after obtaining my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. With this qualification, I ventured into hospice care, striving to support individuals from diverse backgrounds across Los Angeles County. The urgency for them to communicate their life lessons prompted a deep reflection within me. As a young professional entering a challenging field, the dying welcomed me into their intimate spaces, compelled to share insights they wished they had grasped sooner. These narratives haven’t just remained personal; they have transformed into a moral compass guiding me as a voter.

Regrets and Realities: A Mirror for Political Choices

One of the most poignant lessons extracted from my interactions with the dying is the importance of nurturing relationships. Many expressed sorrow over prioritizing wealth, power, and professional success over their families, friends, and community welfare. Stories emerged of individuals who built fortunes while employees struggled to make ends meet—a ethical dissonance that haunted them at life’s end. These reflections reveal the complexities of our socio-economic system, making me acutely aware of candidates whose agendas prioritize profit over people.

In addition, the overarching culture that glorifies relentless work and financial achievement held many back from fully experiencing life. As they lay on their deathbeds, numerous individuals lamented not taking enough time to explore the world or cultivate meaningful connections. The consequences of a fast-paced, materialistic lifestyle were evident, and these regrets shaped my understanding of pertinent political issues, such as labor rights, health care access, and work-life balance.

Crucial conversations emerged as well regarding health care access—regulations and policies often dictated survival rates for individuals lacking adequate insurance. Many shouldered immense burdens of medical expenses, leading them to postpone vital treatments until it was too late. Their regrets forced me to scrutinize how the election could determine a future where health care is a right, not a privilege. When evaluating candidates, I now ask pivotal questions: Do they aim to make healthcare affordable? Do they advocate for policies that protect the most vulnerable among us? How do they plan to dismantle systemic inequities within our healthcare system?

This reflection leads me to advocate for what I term a “deathbed regrets voter guide.” This framework can provide clarity in a political landscape often mired in ambiguity. Should we not weigh political choices through the lens of basic human needs, we risk perpetuating a cycle of neglect toward those who are most in need. By sharing the collective voices of the dying, I aim to encourage others to consider the broader implications of their votes.

Essentially, the core principles posited by those nearing the end of life are about empathy, compassion, and a commitment to the greater good. Essential issues such as food security, quality education, affordable health care, and workers’ rights should dominate the dialogue surrounding this election. Are candidates genuinely invested in creating policies that fulfill these basic necessities, or do they prioritize their political ambitions and the acquisition of power?

The essence of these lessons transcends the voting booth. We are confronted not merely with a choice of candidates but with a reflection of our values and life choices. The importance of aligning our political actions with the broader societal impact—promoting kindness, understanding, and equality—underscores the need for a more human-centric approach to governance.

As we prepare to cast our votes, it’s imperative to remember that these decisions echo beyond individual lives—they shape the future landscape of our communities and society at large. The insights gained from those who have faced the finality of life resonate deeply, urging us to approach the election not just as citizens but as stewards of our collective future.

As you prepare for the upcoming polls, reflect on what kind of legacy you seek to foster. Embrace the wisdom gleaned from conversations with the dying, as it may light the path towards a more compassionate and equitable political environment for all. Don’t merely check a box; stand firm in your values and ensure that the choices you make align with the kind of world you wish to create for generations to come. It is not only about what you vote for but also why you vote that truly matters.

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