This could get interesting.

Never particularly liked the thought of dying. Therefore. Over the years. I haven’t dwelled much on the topic. Figuring I’d live to a ripe old age. And then I’d be better able to handle the inevitability of my demise. Don’t even like to use the word death. Instead, I fantasize. About an afterlife. Though acknowledging. That it’s highly unlikely. Just something nice to dream about. It would have been much more difficult. For me. To accept death when I was relatively young. In my 30s or 40s. But now that I’m in my 80s. it’s somewhat easier to accept. Because I’ve outlived most people. Furthermore, I don’t relish having to live as a decrepit old codger. Barely able to get around. Mentally and physically.  I wonder if less intelligent life. Can even grasp the concept of death. Probably never thinks about it. Though there must be a survival instinct.  In my dear cat Marcello, for instance. He doesn’t want to be in a pickle that imperils his life. He takes care of himself. The best he can. And appreciates a little assistance from me. His basic food provider. A good reason. For him to cozy up to me. He’s no dummy. Anyway. Now that I know that Marcello speaks. Fluent English. It might be wise for me. To engage him in philosophical discussion. About death. And the afterlife. From a cat’s perspective. I’ll see what he has to say. Stay tuned. This could get interesting. --Jim Broede