Native American cultures see death not as something to dread, but as a vital tool in the cycle of life. One prayer describes death as the top of a mountain - a point where all knowledge is drawn. Loved ones therefore treasure their dying, gathering around them not only to comfort, but to benefit and learn from that knowledge lessons which may be applied to improve their own lives. And deaths.

Similarly, among ancient Celts entire communities gathered around their dying to learn. Centers were devoted to the care of the dying, like giant hospice halls; but they also served as gathering places for the community to join in this valuable process. What a great ease it must have been for those passing on to be surrounded with respect and welcoming peace, rather than fear, avoidance, and denial.

I find it heartbreaking that we waste this opportunity to lessen grief and learn what may be most important in life. How to die without pain and fear, yes; but also to learn the uniquely pure and uncluttered truth the death process can bring.

We can begin to change our own culture by becoming familiar. Anxiety decreases as knowledge and exposure increase; we become comfortable as we become accustomed. Naturally as we will all face death, the better we understand that process both physical and spiritual the less difficult it will be. Perhaps we may find the element of beauty in it that ancient cultures have understood for centuries.

At the First Baptist Church in Coeur d'Alene on Wednesday, April 13, the public and care providers (CEUs available) may experience a free, interactive presentation, "Spirituality and End of Life" from 1-4:30 p.m. The interdisciplinary event is hosted by Hospice of North Idaho. For more information call Grant MacLean, HONI spiritual care coordinator, at (208) 772-7994.

On the four-pointed Indian medicine wheel, the West is the "looks-within" place. Speak to your introspective nature.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Email sholehjo@hotmail.com