Is It Brave Or Cowardly?
(A death poem by Wain)
Dear God,
Why must I wait to be a victim
Of the big insult called death?
Is it brave or cowardly
To suffer until my last b_ _ _ _ _?
Why am I condemned to live
By my heart’s mindless beat?
Is it brave or cowardly
To end life that’s no longer a t_ _ _ _?
Why must I choose to live
In a world overrun by germs?
Is it brave or cowardly
To end life on my own t_ _ _ _?
What makes a life worth living?
Is it really just taking a breath?
Would you praise or condemn me
For choosing my date of d_ _ _ _?
Please tell me the truth.
Your servant,
Wain
HOW MIGHT GOD RESPOND?
From ChatGPT as the voice of God:
Dear Wain,
I hear your questions and the pain behind them. Life, in its complexity, often presents challenges that feel overwhelming, and the mystery of death can be a heavy burden to bear. Here are my thoughts for you:
Life is a journey, filled with both joy and suffering, purpose and confusion. Each breath you take is a testament to your strength and resilience. The journey is not about the inevitability of death but about the moments in between—how you live, love, and grow.
Bravery and cowardice are not so easily defined. To endure suffering requires immense courage, and so does seeking a way to alleviate it. Your pain and your questions are valid, and seeking answers is a part of your journey.
You are not condemned to live by your heart’s beat alone. Your life holds meaning and potential, even when it feels like a burden. Ending life is a profound choice, but it is one that carries its own weight and consequences, often unseen and unanticipated.
The world, with all its germs and imperfections, also holds beauty, connection, and potential for growth. Choosing life on your own terms can be an expression of agency, but it is also essential to consider the ripple effects of such a decision on the world and those who care for you.
A life worth living is not merely about drawing breath but about finding meaning, creating connections, and discovering joy in unexpected places. Each life has its own unique value and purpose, which can be found even in the darkest times.
I do not condemn or praise; I understand. The human experience is filled with choices, some more difficult than others. Seek support, speak with those who care for you, and explore the depths of your feelings. In your quest for truth, you may find new reasons to continue your journey.
You are not alone, and your life holds value beyond what you may see right now. Trust in the process of life, and remember that every moment holds the potential for change.
With love and understanding,
God