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What do you think when I say "Death Café?" A place to discuss death and dying.

  • Writer: Ali Mills
    Ali Mills
  • Sep 3, 2024
  • 2 min read
People sitting around a table drinking coffee, laughing and discussing death and dying
Death Cafe

It's a strange term, isn't it?


What do you think happens at a Death Café? Have you been to one? Would you go to one?


I am quite a fan of Death Cafe's.


They are a community space, where we come together to drink tea, eat cake, and dip our toes into a conversation about death and dying. A conversation that most of us avoid. Beyond this, there is no agenda. The conversation will go wherever the group requires it to go. Sometimes the group speaks about losses that they have faced. Sometimes the group speaks about fear of loss, and how strange it is to be talking about it at all.


I recently had the opportunity to share my insights for an article featured on SBS Food. In the piece, I delved into the unexpected comfort that can be found in the unique setting of a death cafe. These cafes, despite their somber connotations, provide a space for open discussions about mortality, grief, and the profound impact of loss on our lives. Through the article, I explored how these unconventional spaces offer a sense of solace and community to those grappling with the complexities of death and dying.


If you're interested in reading more about this topic, you can access the full article on SBS Food's website here.


Screenshot of SBS Food Article discussing death Cafes
SBS Food Article about Death Cafes



I will be running another Death Café, with my colleague Amy from Brisbane Grief Counselling, at the end of September at a beautiful venue overlooking the trees, with the sound of birdsong in the background.


We welcome all those who are intrigued by this concept to join us and explore the profound discussions that unfold at the Death Café. Whether you come with questions, stories, or simply a curious mind, you are sure to find a welcoming and supportive environment that encourages introspection and sharing. This event is designed to foster connection, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of mortality.


Don't miss this chance to be part of a community that embraces the topic of death with compassion and curiosity. Mark your calendars for this special gathering and immerse yourself in a setting that invites contemplation and dialogue amidst the beauty of nature. We look forward to welcoming you to our Death Café and embarking on this meaningful journey together.


You can find details of that offering, and register your attendance here; https://deathcafe.com/deathcafe/20208/.



Information picture with details of upcoming Death Cafe
Upcoming Death Cafe Information


May this be your invitation to host your own Death Café, within your own home, with your loved ones nearby. Perhaps it's over your morning coffee, or at the dinner table. What would you ask, or what would you share? Let me know how it goes.



Comments


Affiliated with;

I would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and waters in which we work, live and grieve.

I pay my respects to elders past, present and emerging and honour the rich history of storytelling and guidance that generations of First Nations people offer us all.

I would like to acknowledge the diversity of the lived experience and the rich backgrounds of all those who are grieving.

 

Loss is universal and I am committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate and inclusive service for people of all ages, ethnicities, faiths, abilities, socio-economic status and gender identity. I am also committed to continuing to learn and grow to better understand the richness of these experiences.

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