"What you want – Baby, I got it" were the lyrics that showcased Aretha Franklin's famed life and virtuous death. Like a song that becomes
an anthem, her life had a resounding impact on others. "We're goin' ridin' on the freeway of love," was Aretha's invitation to this gay, white boy to join her in solidarity. Her use of the universal language of love fueled respect for all persons despite any differences. While becoming an American treasure and personal icon of self-expression, Aretha Franklin attained a purposeful life with gospel vibrato.
Self-determination comes from a higher power of faith. As a child of God and daughter of a Baptist minister, Aretha was nurtured with unconditional love from the beginning of life until the end. Having agreed to hospice, she placed her life in the hands of nursing personnel who serve as guardian angels. People who command respect deserve others to
comfort them like they're being welcomed home. Hospice can provide such a setting and awareness.
"All I'm askin' for is a little respect
when you come home (just a little bit)"
Sadly, people who do not ask for respect at the end of life are often mistreated. When patients and their caregivers are resistant to receiving appropriate end-of-life care, they tend to receive life-prolonging measures. Rather than dying at home, they frequently die in ICUs.
With any hard fought battle, you can choose to die on the battlefield or return home. Ms. Franklin made the choice to return home. She respected herself enough to have a good death surrounded by family and friends. In turn, they respected her wishes.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T is embodied in each person.
What this means is spelled out in each letter.
