If we learn to listen and observe carefully, the dying can teach us important things that we need to learn in preparing for the end of our own journey in life. From standing at the bedside of the dying, Dr. Robert Wise came to realize there were important patterns and steps that the dying were trying to describe. And, yet, many miss these life lessons when they go to great lengths to avoid a conversation or encounter with the dying. Wise learned by stopping and listening to the dying that we can get beyond our morbid fears of death, to come to a place of peaceful acceptance and to be able to look ahead to a dignified celebration of death. Inspiring stories of those with one foot stepping into eternity give us assurance, hope and a fresh expectation of what lies beyond the grave. We can all face it without fear. Here are fascinating stories offering reassurance and promise.

DR. ROBERT L. WISE is the author of numerous articles and over 30 books, including Crossing the Threshold of Eternity and the best-selling The Third Millennium. He has been the principle lecturer for the Bethel Series in Canada, Germany and the United States and has made multiple TV appearances to discuss his books and world travels. His work has been translated into Spanish, Dutch, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and German. Dr. Wise is an archbishop in the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches. More information about his writing can be found at www.robertwisebooks.com.