Later that day, the Chaplain visits. She encourages the family to engage in meaningful activities for Mrs. Green such as reading favorite Bible verses, hymns and reminiscing.
Chaplain: “Sometimes, families find it helpful to say 5 things to their loved one before they die. I’ll share them with you and you can decide whether it is something you wish to do: I love you; Forgive me; I forgive you; Thank you; Goodbye.”
“The impending loss of relationships is emotionally painful for almost every person who is aware that death is near. Predictably, achieving a sense of completion in significant relationships is an important opportunity for ill persons and those who love them. The simple exercise of saying “The Five Things” – “Forgive me. I forgive you. Thank you. I love you. Goodbye.” – Has helped many people develop a sense of having left nothing important unsaid.”