Clouds Passing: Meditations On Aging, Death & Dying
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In Springtime Before Chemo Begins Leaning close to the ground, an English laurel ice storms bowed is asking me for her up-righting. I ponder the question of who would come to me in death’s humiliation? So, I get to work, wedging my shoulder strongly against the thick contour of her body, leaning into her for leverage, pressing my weight against her ribs, I lunge again and again, digging in, I feel her rising, arching to allow a wooden brace wedged under her arms, until undaunted she stands, supple and green. Her roots are exposed; I must set a stake, cover them with compost, a warm blanket, calm and comforting. Later, sparrows return to sing, dancing upon her ledges. Together we watch the wonder of springtime, waiting… for winter’s return.
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About the Book
How do we come to terms with death, loss, and aging, and how do we prepare our hearts to say goodbye?
Clouds Passing: Meditations on Aging, Death & Dying is a poetic meditation on life’s most profound transitions. In this reflective chapbook, hospice chaplain and spiritual writer Melvin Dowdy guides readers through themes of mindful aging, anticipatory grief, end-of-life reflection, and the quiet courage it takes to face mortality.
Written in lyrical, accessible poetry, each piece captures intimate moments of caregiving, spiritual awakening, and letting go. What makes this collection unique is its interactive structure. Every poem is followed by a reflection question and a blank page, inviting readers to journal, meditate, or write their own grief poems. It becomes not just a book but a personal companion for those navigating the complexities of death and dying, whether for themselves or a beloved family member.
Ideal for hospice professionals, caregivers, older adults, and spiritual seekers, Clouds Passing offers emotional healing, self-discovery, and a safe space to explore one’s inner life. This book is perfect for use in grief support groups, writing retreats, or as a daily spiritual practice.
If you are searching for grief poetry, reflections on dying, or meditative writing on aging, Clouds Passing offers you a quiet, transformative path forward.
Take time to slow down. Turn the page. Begin your own sacred reflection.
About the Author
Melvin Dowdy is an author, lecturer, therapist, clinical ethicist and an ordained minister. He has worked with the terminally ill and the dying for more than 50 years. Among his specializations as a therapist, he has provided grief counseling to family members, advanced preparation to persons facing the end of life, and ethical consultation on making end-of-life decisions.