Euthanasia

After some 40 years of discussion and consideration the Netherlands has finally approved the legalization of euthanasia. This has been a sensitive issue since the 1960s. A doctor was defamed for giving a lethal injection, a plea by his own long suffering mother.

Let me tell you about an elderly friend of mine, a dear old lady, loved by the whole family and anybody who knew her. Over a number of years her face started to swell, a fate she endured with a big heart, patience and a smile. She was hospitalized several times but her condition continued to deteriorate.

Euthanasia was not yet practised then. I discussed the issue with a doctor who suggested a check up. Eventually the doctor insisted on surgery, a risky decision for a person of her age.

The lady passed away naturally a short time afterward. God's ways are sometimes beyond one's calculation.

NETTY MULIA

Jakarta