As I Lay Dying

It's hard for me to believe that Fr. Neuhaus has now succumbed to cancer and is no longer with us. His extraordinary work, writings, and books, including this special and unforgettable chronicle, have been a huge inspiration to me. May he rest forever in the arms of the Lord he served with such wit, brilliance, humility, insight, humor and selflessness all his life. Your life will be immeasurably enriched by reading "As I Lay Dying."

I became aware of Fr. Richard John Neuhaus through the many publications which cite his works. As he is so highly esteemed by so many, I was soon familiar with the magazine "First Things" which eventually led to this book. The prospect of death is a frightening thing, no how-to manual guides us through it, no expert is around to consult. Thus, it is somewhat illuminating to have a theologian of Neuhaus's stature relate in a brutally honest manner the experience of nearly dying. This is no mamby-pamby, it'll be OK, self-help session. This is a coming to terms; a frank look at the inevitable. Neuhaus barely escaped the clutches of cancer and it is the wisdom accrued during this momentous occasion that he attempts to pass on to the reader. I read this book in two sittings. It is compelling in both it's simple honesty and the complexity of it's ramifications. With death at the door, Neuhaus claims the experience of a lifetime - an experience, no doubt, that has amplified his life and removed the sharper edges from the knowledge of an ultimate day. Having taken it all in, I do not know that I am more prepared to die, but, certainly, I am more prepared to appreciate the value of a life well lived. For this alone, As I Lay Dying is worth reading. 5 stars.

"I almost died." That phrase in particular characterizes the style of "As I Lay Dying." If you are familiar with Fr. Neuhaus's books, you'll know what I'm talking about: There is no hand-holding, no reassurance, no "it'll be okay." The only consolation the author offers us is the truth: facing death is scary, even for the faithful. Its normal, and you can deal with it. Father describes his bewilderment, his helplessness, and his embarrassment, in a matter-of-fact way: don't read this book expecting to hear the violins which so often accompany the telling of near-death experiences. The only truly honest reflection on this matter I've ever read.

This little book is a superb meditation on the mysteries of death (and life) for a Christian. With characteristic clarity, Neuhaus offers a series of ruminations on his own near-death experience, from which he emerged with his faith fully intact.

Oh dear. What a travasty that the the political blinders of a previous reviewer kept him from seeing what an extraordinary, moving, and deeply humane book As I Lay Dying is. This book is an astonishingly suggestive meditation on the limits, blessings and mysteries of human finitude. Father Neuhaus lovingly suspends us at the meeting point of our deepest hopes and anxieties and asks us to open ourselves to being vulnerable: to others, to ourselves and ultimately to the One in whom there is finally life and life abundant. As I Lay Dying is remarkable in its patience, subtlety and humility. Highly, highly recommended.