Highlands Death Cafe Sunday afternoon at The Commons

DOVER-FOXCROFT — There is a common expression “death is part of life’ which is supposed to reassure those hearing it. Yet, many people find conversations about death and dying to be difficult, painful or frightening. Certainly, discussing your feelings about death can be a real conversation stopper at a party!

Announcing the first Highlands Death Cafe, an opportunity for conversation about topics related to death while enjoying cake and refreshments. It will be held at The Commons at Central Hall from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 17 and is open to anyone wishing to just be with others to talk about death-related issues.

Death Cafe was started in England in 2011 to create safe and welcoming places to talk about what is often perceived as a taboo subject, and has grown to over 7,000 independent groups throughout the world. The local co-guides, Lisa Joy White and Lesley Fernow have years of experience talking about death, dying grief and bereavement. They are quick to state, however, that Death Cafe is a group-directed discussion. It is not led by anyone and is specifically not a support group or counseling session. Death Cafes are always not for profit, volunteer run and emphasize respect for all points of view, confidentiality, non-judgement and open dialogue with no intention of leading people to a particular outcome or conclusion.

For more information go to www.deathcafe.com or call 992-6822.