"I have been able to follow my death step by step and now my life goes gently to its end"

The quote by Pope John XXIII, "I have had the ability to follow my death step by step and now my life goes gently to its end", speaks with the profound approval and awareness of death as one's life nears its conclusion. This reflection, coming from a person of deep faith and contemplative insight, captures the essence of a life fully lived, where each moment is acknowledged, and the inevitability of death is not shunned however rather approached with a sense of peacefulness and conclusion.

In the words, "I have actually been able to follow my death step by step", there is a sense of mindfulness and presence. Pope John XXIII suggests an unfolding journey where he observes the gradual process of passing away, not with fear or rejection however with acceptance. It reflects a life lived with intention, where he has actually been conscious of the passage of time and the natural development towards life's end. This statement can resonate with the concept of dealing with awareness, where every day is a step better to the inevitable yet is consulted with grace and understanding.

The phrase, "and now my life goes carefully to its end", exposes a mindset of tranquility and preparedness. The word "carefully" suggests a smooth and tranquil shift, without turmoil or resistance. It suggests that Pope John XXIII has actually reached a state of inner peace, having actually reconciled with the finiteness of life and finding solace in the idea of death as a natural conclusion to the journey of life. His approval can motivate others to challenge mortality with courage and calmness, stressing the importance of discovering peace within oneself.

This quote highlights the spiritual dimension of human existence, where approaching death is not simply the cessation of physical life but an integral part of the spiritual journey. Pope John XXIII's words welcome reflection on how people browse their own mortality, motivating a perspective where life is valued, and death is approached with self-respect and approval.