In one of those discussions of last words, Adelai Stevenson said his preference would be to die in conversation with friends. “No last words?” someone asked. “If you want last words, say them now because you never know when it will be.” He died walking with friends in London.
Truman’s vice president, Albin Barkley, had the best exit. He was speaking at a political rally, and giving a brief autobiography. “I was representative from the [whatever number] district of Kentucky, then junior senator from Kentucky, then senior senator, then vice president, and now I am the representative for the [number] district of Kentucky.” [appreciative laughter] “But I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord than to sit in the house of the mighty.” And dropped dead at that point.
pouncingtiger over 13 years ago
Ain’t that the truth!
fredbuhl over 13 years ago
Things couldn’t be too bad, the boys could have ended up a bit farther south.
lewisbower over 13 years ago
Oh please Dear God, don’t let me have a snappy comeback when St Pete asks my name.
hippogriff over 13 years ago
In one of those discussions of last words, Adelai Stevenson said his preference would be to die in conversation with friends. “No last words?” someone asked. “If you want last words, say them now because you never know when it will be.” He died walking with friends in London.
Truman’s vice president, Albin Barkley, had the best exit. He was speaking at a political rally, and giving a brief autobiography. “I was representative from the [whatever number] district of Kentucky, then junior senator from Kentucky, then senior senator, then vice president, and now I am the representative for the [number] district of Kentucky.” [appreciative laughter] “But I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord than to sit in the house of the mighty.” And dropped dead at that point.
bmonk over 13 years ago
Many “historical” last words were not really said.
But the best way to die well–do what you would want to do as your last deed; say what you would want to say as your last words.
And, be sure to forgive someone the day you die.