Van Goch's bedroom
Hello and Welcome!
Wherever you are in the world, and however you found me, I am so glad that you did! Recently I watched a docudrama on the life of my favourite artist: Vincent van Gogh. It was a very moving tale, with the role of Vincent being played admirably by Benedict Cumberbatch. On one hand I enjoyed the wealth of colour and scenes that leapt from the artist's canvases. But on the other, witnessing his struggles, both financial and mental, was difficult to watch. However, in the context of the imminent vote to allow assisted suicide in the UK, it was the final scene which unsettled me the most.
Vincent visited his brother, Theo, and his wife and met their baby son for the first time. Until then Theo had financially supported Vincent. But during the visit Theo told him that, due to the extra financial responsibilities that he now had with his new family, he would be unable to support to him as much. In the docudrama Vincent went home, wrote Theo a letter saying that he did not want to be a burden to him, went into a field, and he shot himself.
People against assisted suicide state that this 'not wanting to be a burden' - to, say, relatives, the NHS, and so on - is precisely the kind of reaction that the elderly, the dependent, the sick, the disabled, the depressed, the poor, the homeless, the jobless, and so on, may push them into feeling obliged to voluntarily opt to die.
But why, you may ask, am I mentioning these kinds of scenarios when, the Assisted Dying Bill, now before the UK Parliament, sets out clear parameters in law to protect people from the unscrupulous, and so on. Hmm. Well. The problem is that assisted dying laws, actually, they are assisted suicide laws, allowed in countries including Belgium, Canada and the Netherlands, have quickly got out of hand. So, the scenarios I mention, are becoming commonplace in these countries, Even vulnerable children are now opting to die
I say none of this lightly, and everything can be backed up as fact. Here are just a few links for you to check the facts out for yourself.
Euthanasia of children in the Netherlands
Netherlands backs euthanasia for children under 12
Euthanasia of children in Belgium
The homeless choose euthanasia in Canada
More horror stories of euthanasia from Canada
Once you have done a little research by clicking on any of the above links it will be easier for you to know what, if anything, you can do about this upcoming bill. For instance, if you live in the UK please write to your MP about this. You could use this link:
You could try the short meditation below to think this subject over.
1 minute meditation
Breathe in deeply and as you exhale feel the whole of your body relax.
Now say this prayer, or one of your own.
"Dear Heavenly Father, Your 6th Commandment is 'thou shalt not kill' but there are - often well-meaning - people who hold a different view. Many of these are very persuasive and powerful. But please let them be swayed, instead, by the awful broadening of assisted suicide already happening in other countries so that they block this proposed bill. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen."
In conclusion I want to highlight that some people think that to allow assisted suicide is a compassionate act to guarantee a painless death, however, according to experts, a range of adverse affects may occur during this process - which can take up to 47 hours!! Anaesthesiologist Dr Joel Zivot says, "I am quite certain that assisted suicide is not painless or peaceful or dignified... in the majority of cases it is a very painful death." Click this link for more info on this reality check:
Stay safe.
God bless,
Teresa
For articles, and inspiration, plus info about me and my work please visit my website. (www.teresaodriscoll.co.uk)
You may like to check out my books which are all available as paperbacks and e-books. Pray Then Listen Prayer guide
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I have been asking God for guidance and listening to His replies for many years. I share my simple methods in Pray Then Listen, A heart-to-heart with God 
Set on the green and beautiful Greek island of Corfu in this novel I show the ever-present backstory of life, as I interpret the supernatural elements of our dilemmas and choices.
I know, that no matter what your beliefs or experiences, you will surely recognize the tussles of my characters, as tussles in your own life.... Enjoy Angel at the Paradise Hotel! You may like to see my blog on the Backstory of this novel
9 Days to Heaven Christian inspiration
I wrote 9 Days to Heaven, How to make everlasting meaning of your life as my personal evangelization effort. Check out 9 Days to Heaven See YouTube book trailer: 9 Days to Heaven
