Morrie Schwartz, Mitch Albom’s former professor at Brandeis University, is diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Sadly, this is a progressive neuromuscular disease with no cure and ultimately causes the afflicted person to die. Mitch becomes reacquainted with his former professor and shares Morrie’s days of waning health on Tuesdays, their choice day of weekly visits. Mitch is deeply affected by the grace and calm acceptance that Morrie displays in his journey toward death. Though Morrie cannot help but feel sad at times, his spirit of love and his outlook on life helps Mitch learn about things which make life truly meaningful.

The deeply personal philosophy that Morrie shares with Mitch makes a beautiful story. It accentuates the positive forces of love and life as well as reinforces the fact that dying is as natural as being born. Morrie’s message is not to fear death nor isolate the dying person but rather realize that one remains alive during the dying process and that companionship and love should be shared with anyone facing an impending death. Bravo to Morrie for unabashedly presenting his story to the world and to Mitch for not being embarrassed to reveal that a young man can be so profoundly moved by a mentor from his own youth!