There’s a Jewish phrase that people often say after someone dies: “May their memory be a blessing.” It represents different things to different people, but is intended as an active remembrance, a way to both honor and extend the virtue of the deceased. Critically acclaimed director Ondi Timoner’s deeply moving documentary, “Last Flight Home,” ends with a version of this phrase. But every scene serves as an example of its many meaningful facets.
Last year, when her father Eli was 93 and in failing health, he declared that he wanted to end his life on his own terms. Because his home state of California has a Death with Dignity law, he had the freedom to make that choice under carefully prescribed conditions. The first of these was a 15-day waiting period — and this is the time Timoner records. She calls upon her talents and experience to tell the unassuming story of a man who lived quietly, as a devoted husband and dedicated friend and father. Profound in its simplicity, wrenching in its honesty, and beautiful in its humanity, “Last Flight Home” is the blessing Eli Timoner earned.
Please join us for this “remarkable and riveting” film. A Q&A with Rabbi Rachel Timoner will follow. Coffee and dessert will be provided. Click here to register.
This event is free and open to the community. Suggested donation guidelines are provided with proceeds benefiting Death With Dignity, a non-profit and leader in end of life advocacy and policy reform.
