The Week When Hugo Claus Died by D.C.Monteny
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Description
There’s precious little to say
When your waking hours
Are longing for sleep once more
Nothing really happens at all
If not for the headlines on TV
Convincing you that you’re still alive
It was the week Hugo Claus died
Our greatest Flemish writer ever
And he took the path of euthanasia
A road which might be mine as well
And one I’ve been wondering about
Ever since I knew my battle won’t last
Not for now, I live, I’m in no pain
I embrace every waking second
Of my slightly prolonged existence
But the choice is there, already grinning
At the impossibility of my decision
All the pro’s and contra’s to ponder
There’s one thing I don’t want
And that’s to die in a cold, sterile
hospital room, away from my animals
But to determine the time of my death
That glorious blessing of a final choice
Seems to be to far off into the future
I think events will determine the outcome
As it always does in our daily lives
It think the quality of life will be the judge
These might have been depressing lines
But I’m so glad to live in a country
Where they at least granted me the choice
When enough
Is really enough
-------------------------------------------------
Thank you so much for reading and any comments you might have.
Love
Dirk
Comments (20)
Juliette.Gribnau
love you back !
gateman45
love you front!!!
bpclarke
I wish my Grandmother had had this choice. It seems more humane than the type of death she endured. You are a brave man, Dirk. My hero. Bunny
Gaiadriel
softly nodding in understanding and agreement love you all around!!!!!
fractalinda
Just love you. {{{{Dirk}}}} Poignantly expressed. No matter which choice you make, I wish you as little pain as possible for as long as possible, Linda and your animals around you..and everlasting peace.
deliverence
sigh
kuzy62
love you too!!
woofee
I agree Dirk. We should all have the choice. woofee
auntietk
That choice should be a basic right the world over. I'm glad you can make your decision without having to edge around any intrusive legalities. Whatever you do, I'm sure it will be the right thing for you. I don't know you well enough to love you "back, front, and all around," but you certainly do have my respect, my admiration, and a piece of my heart.
Cosine
Well said, my friend. I live in a place where I have the same choice. I hope, if the time comes, I have the courage to make the same choice.
beachzz
Beautifully spoken, as always, but this time with more feeling and truth than ever.
pixart1
A small "thanks" for being here on Rendo till now. Your most exceptional .xeps you sent to me long time ago will last. My friend and master of XD masters. You'll make the right decision to the right time and I'll weep bitter tears.
RodolfoCiminelli
Love you great spiritual force.......!!! A strong hug....!!!
Dinhi
"But the choice is there, already grinning At the impossibility of my decision All the pro’s and contra’s to ponder" Taking control of your life is a guaranteed smile producer. There can be nothing else in this life that is harder to swallow than the loss of ones ability to control his/her decisions, future and outcomes. When we have lost that one precious element that makes us individuals, life itself offers little to bring those grins..I am glad your grinning and support your efforts to take back the control from your dragon. I have never met you Dirk, yet I feel I know you as you have brought yourself into this community with your artistic personality and your incredible writing. As an XD artist, I marvel at your work on a daily basis, you are always here. I feel I know you, your journey, a picture book in my mind that you have given us/me. Your fears, resonate in my heart and your grinning, brings a smile to my face so very far from where you are. Huggs... [=
netsia
My brother chose the Path Hugo Claus did. Here,in the US,it is not 'legal' but he chose the path anyway. His last day was spent with us sitting together and just talking and looking over old family photos. Those of our family who had already passed joined us this day and then he joined them. Blessings to you. Hoka Hey!
stefan_vitanov
There is some way ahead
Jennyfnf
I don't know what to say or how to say it. You are a man of great courage to share your feelings and speak so.
leanndra
Dirk, This is a strong and powerful writing. For years I have had mixed feelings about the issure of euthanasia. I suppose it depends on which side of a terminal illness one has. Personally, I believe it is inhuman that people must suffer such pain and also the medical bills that are never ending. I had a friend who died within the last year and a half. She was 34 and died from cancer. She was a very vibrant and lovely young woman. She fought all the way up to her last breath, but of course the grim reaper was stronger than she was. This is something that only you can decide. I wish you comfort no matter what your decision is when that moment comes to you. God Bless Lea
CavalierLady
I have been at a complete lack for words, since this is not an option here in the US, and it's such a powerful decision to make. But I respect your views and the fact that you have options. My sweetheart died at home. I hope I can to, I wouldn't want to be in that cold sterile room, either. I sincerely hope it's a long time before you have to finalize those decisions, my friend. I can appreciate you wanting your family and beloved dogs around you. Take care, Dirk, I think of you often.
regen1950
Dear mr Monteny, you don't know me and you probably never will.. but I just wanted to say that your art has made an impression in my life, an impression that will never go away no matter what. Yours words will always be with me and the essence of you that's here will never be forgotten by me. Thank you for making a difference, at least to this little mouse.