Tea, Cookies, and the Courage to Talk About Dying

Emberlight: The Center for Conscious Living & Dying invites you to an intimate afternoon of conversation, tea, and reflection with Trish Rux, co-author of Dying Matters.

Talking about death isn’t easy—but it may be one of the most meaningful conversations we can have. When we face mortality honestly, we often discover what matters most: love, connection, and how we want to live the time we have.

This gathering centers around Dying Matters, a deeply compassionate and practical book created to help individuals, families, and communities open conversations about serious illness, caregiving, grief, loss, and end-of-life choices—no matter where they are on that journey.

Over tea, Courtney Blue Smith will be in conversation with Trish about the inspiration behind the book, the process of writing it, and what she has learned through decades of work as a hospice and palliative care nurse, death doula, educator, and end-of-life coach. Trish may read a short passage from the book, after which the conversation will open to questions and reflections from the group.

Dying Matters offers eight heart-centered, practical conversations designed to prepare us for the end of life by helping us:

• Understand how modern healthcare works

• Explore options for care and comfort

• Build a community of support

• Clarify values and priorities for living well

• Reflect on legacy, forgiveness, and gratitude

Whether you are healthy, living with illness, caregiving for a loved one, or walking alongside grief, this gathering is an invitation to listen deeply, speak honestly, and remember that these conversations—held gently and early—can bring peace, clarity, and connection.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.

All are welcome.