Full of life - A self-determined farewell with dignity

Life is a journey, characterized by experiences, encounters and memories. Many people look back on this journey in old age or after a fulfilled life and feel a deep inner peace. They have the feeling that they have experienced everything, given everything and received everything they wanted. They are full of life, have reached the end of their lives or feel an inner maturity that makes them ready to say goodbye to this world in peace. But in our society, the topic is often taboo or equated with illness and suffering, even though it is a conscious, peaceful decision.

What does it mean to be full of life?

Life satiety, also known as maturity or peace of mind, is not a sudden impulse or the result of acute need, but a deeply felt sense of completeness. People who feel they have reached the end of their life’s journey often report the following thoughts:

  • A feeling of completion: they no longer have any unfulfilled dreams or wishes that they would like to realize.

  • Declining vitality: You increasingly feel that your body and mind are getting tired.

  • An inner peace with the past: you have reflected on your life and feel reconciled with what was.

  • No desire for further medical interventions: Many people do not want any further stressful treatments or medical procedures.

  • The desire for peace and quiet: the world is getting louder, faster and more stressful. Many people long for a peaceful farewell.

This inner maturity is a deeply personal feeling and should not be confused with despair or depression. It is not about an acute life crisis, but about an inner clarity that one’s own journey has come to a natural end.

The social perspective on life satisfaction

In earlier times, the concept of the end of life was often associated with wisdom and experience. People who had led long, fulfilling lives were valued as advisors and respected in their desire for a peaceful farewell. Today, however, old age is often equated with illness and the need for help, while the wish for a self-determined end is not always met with understanding.

From a social point of view, it is important not to stigmatize this natural process, but to acknowledge it as part of life’s journey. Discussions on this topic can help to create a greater awareness of dignity and self-determination in old age.

The wish for a peaceful farewell

Those who feel they have had enough of life often wish for a quiet and peaceful farewell, without fear or suffering. This does not necessarily mean that someone is making an active decision to die, but rather that he or she is ready to let go of life. People in this phase often report that they withdraw from their surroundings, enjoy memories more and feel a deep inner peace.

Dealing with this wish with dignity means that those around you – be it family, friends or medical caregivers – respect and support this decision. Openness and understanding are of crucial importance here. It is particularly important that society allows an open dialog about the end of life in order to give affected people the space to express their thoughts and feelings freely.

Sylvia Ruthenburg

Suicide companion | mortician

Hello, I’m Sylvia. As a funeral director, I have accompanied many people on their final journey and know how challenging goodbyes can be. The aim of assisted suicide is not only to organize the physical farewell, but also to offer emotional support. Together with my partner, I want to create an atmosphere of trust in which individual wishes and needs take center stage. I am here to support you during this difficult time.

Cornelius Ruthenburg

Suicide companion | Undertaker

Hello, I am Cornelius. My passion is to accompany people in difficult phases of life with empathy and respect. I am particularly passionate about assisted suicide because I believe that everyone should go in dignity and peace. Together with my partner, I want to create a space in which people feel understood and supported. I am here to accompany you on this challenging path.