Before I Die Cube

"Before I Die I Will _____" art project is a large chalkboard cube which invites passers-by to pick up a chalk pen, reflect on death and what's important in life, and anonymously share their personal aspirations in public. Six foot high boards are painted with blackboard paint then assembled in a cube. "Before I Die I Will" is stencilled across the top and chalk pens are provided for people to share one thing they would like to do before they die. Wouldn’t that have us consider our values, what’s important and soften our hearts toward each other?

Death is certain. We are all going die. Yet many people are in denial about death and dying for themselves, loved ones, neighbours, colleagues, even strangers. It is one of the subjects that cause us discomfort, embarrassment, and many of us avoid the topic. This includes avoiding the people who are experiencing grief or who are dying. Contemplating death helps bring clarity to what is important in life.

Providing a "Before I Die" art installation that invites the public to connect with their mortality begins to create a culture of openness around the end of life. As a wise society we need to acknowledge the end of life process, to talk openly to people living with a terminal condition, sudden or expected death, and be kind and available. When we shun those experiencing death or loss we shut ourselves off from our more compassionate, empathetic selves and reduce our capacity to relate to those in distress including ourselves. Many studies have shown that a good death begins with conversations and a plan.