Dane Ortlund - "Walking with God in the Darkness" - Psalm 23

In *Being Mortal*, Atul Gawande explores the limitations and failures of modern medicine in dealing with aging and death. Through personal stories, case studies, and research, Gawande argues that the medical profession often prioritizes prolonging life over improving its quality. He highlights the need for greater communication and planning around end-of-life care, emphasizing the importance of autonomy, dignity, and individual preferences. The book encourages readers to rethink their approach to aging and dying, focusing on what makes life meaningful and fulfilling until the very end.

The novella tells the story of a pilot flying home from RAF Celle in northern Germany to RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk on Christmas Eve 1957. When his De Havilland Vampire aircraft experiences a complete electrical failure, he is lost in fog over the North Sea with no working compass or radio. The pilot uses a unique flying pattern to try and alert air traffic controllers, hoping to be 'shepherded' to safety. Despite the dire circumstances, a rescue aircraft appears, guiding him to safety in a dramatic and unforgettable ending.