Throughout the ages, people have reflected upon the issues of death and dying. While most recognize that death is inevitable, fear of the unknown has pervaded such discussions (Anderson, 1980). Different societies have attempted to address these fears and concerns in diverse ways in accordance with their religious or cultural backgrounds and norms in order to make the final passage of life more comforting. With the advent of modern medical technology and the more common usage of artificial measures to prolong life, many people today are more ....