Weary Old Warrior

Abstract

This narrative describes how an art image can elicit conversation with hospice patients about their spiritual needs. It describes one conversation between the researcher (in the role of a spiritual care provider) and a hospice patient that demonstrates how an art image can serve as a metaphor, a bridge linking inner and outer worlds, and a stimulus to help those at the end of life identify and integrate aspects of self that might otherwise remain unexpressed and unresolved. One goal for spiritual care providers is to be open to painful expressions of regret and longing.