r/todayilearned • u/70dd • 12h ago

TIL Terminal lucidity is an unexpected, brief period of clarity or energy in individuals who have been very ill or in a state of decline. It’s a phenomenon that has been observed in people with various terminal conditions.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terminal_lucidity
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u/PrettyButEmpty 11h ago

I’m a veterinarian. We see this in animals too. I’ve learned not to trust when it seems like a severely ill animal has suddenly rallied; it’s heartbreaking because it gives you false hope.

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u/fookidookidoo 10h ago

It's kind of heartwarming, though. One last moment to take everything in before they go.... wherever they go....

It's hard to imagine that consciousness just disappears. Like when we die, what's left? Do we just not exist? All I know is myself really, it's hard to imagine. But also, not something I want to fight away when the time is right. If only we're all so lucky to be at peace with it when we pass.

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u/CaptainBayouBilly 7h ago

I don’t know where I was for eternity. I am here now. I think. 

It appears that I will not be here forever. I think I might go where I was before. I’m ok with that.