Christopher Kerr - Death Is But a Dream: Finding Hope and Meaning at Lifes End

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Kerr, Christopher, MD, author. | Mardorossian, Carine M., author.

Title: Death is but a dream: finding hope and meaning at lifes end /

Christopher Kerr, MD, PhD; with Carine Mardorossian.

Description: New York: Avery, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2020. | Includes bibliographical references and index. | Summary: The first book to explore the meaningful dreams and visions that bring comfort as death nears. Provided by publisher.

Identifiers: LCCN 2019038405 (print) | LCCN 2019038406 (ebook) |

ISBN 9780525542841 (hardcover) | ISBN 9780525542858 (epub)

Subjects: LCSH: Death in dreams. | Dream interpretation. | DeathPsychological aspects.

Classification: LCC BF1099.D4 K47 2020 (print) | LCC BF1099.D4 (ebook) | DDC 155.9/37dc23

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2019038405

LC ebook record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2019038406

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The bookends of my life have been strong women. A secret conspiracy of old and young women, ones who raised me and ones whom I have raised. This book is for them.

To my grandmother Violet, who fought through the hardships of her times and emerged ennobled by the scars. She did not suffer foolish men, neither gladly nor at all. To her grandchildren, she was full of humor and great humanity.

To my mother, Shirley, whose eyes can never look beyond the needs of others, and who rebels as much as she achieves. Thank you for laughing out loud when my first grade teacher said of me Dont expect too much. Then and now, you have made all things possible and the world a wonder.

To my daughter Bobbie, who at age three pointed to the moon and asked, Did you make dat? I said no, and you were saddened. Then I showed you something bettera horse. As you touched his mane, he touched your heart, and together you began a journey toward your lifes passion and purpose. Some days I like you better on a horse, but on all daysnow and foreverI will love you to dat moon and back.

To my daughter Maddie, who has taught us the real prize doesnt go to the winner of the race, or of any contest, for that matter. There is no prize for goodness. Indeed, the good ones simply become our heroes. You are mine.

No one ever had to tell me you were strong women. There was never a need. I always knew.