How would this religion treat the idea of George opting for euthanasia? Euthanasia in the view of Christianity is regarded as a sin, as it is not our own life to decide what do with. As Christians, it is not our place to act as God and choose to end one’s life, while pain and suffering is not ideal it is important to remember the sufferings endured by Jesus Christ before making such a decision. In regards to euthanasia, Christians oppose the idea of euthanasia as it goes against Gods will and is ultimately viewed as murder. “Our task, therefore, is not to abandon those who suffer but to “maximize care” for them as they live out their own life’s story. We ought “always to care, never to kill” (Meilaender, 2013).” As a nurse, this author understands the How would this religion morally justify the decision that George makes? As Christians view all life as sacred, euthanasia cannot be morally justified in this religion. As ALS is a progressive disease it would be wise for medical professionals to involve palliative care and pastoral care. Pastoral care can help to guide George through this process and assist him in renewing his relationship with God. Palliative care is specialized medical care for people who suffer from debilitating diseases such as ALS. Palliative care should not disrupt God’s plan for George, instead the palliative care team will guide George and his family through the necessary process of advanced care planning and preparation for end of life. In this time George, should use it to gain a closer relationship with God. Buddhism How this religion interprets the nature of George’s malady and suffering In relation to George’s illness and inevitable suffering it is the belief of Buddhists that life and all that occurs in one’s life is the direct result of Karma. Every action creates its own Karma. If we bring happiness to people and do good for and towards others, we will be happy and receive like goodness. If we create suffering, we will experience suffering either in this life or in a future one.This is referred to as the Law of Karma, or the Law of Cause and Effect. Karmic law will lead the spirit of the dead to be reborn, in realms which are suitable appropriate to their karmic accumulations (Sri Dhammananda, 1987). As a Buddhist, George can view his suffering as a direct effect of something that was done in a past life. This religion’s view of the value of the life of George In the view of Buddhism, George’s life is not his only life, his life is universal as it goes through the perpetual cycle of death and rebirth. Buddhists would view George’s life as a privilege, as only humans can reach Nirvana. Per Sri Dhammananda (1987), In the Buddha’s Teaching, it is said that the spiritual development of man is more important than the development of material welfare. History has taught us that we cannot expect to gain both worldly happiness and everlasting Happiness at the same time. How would this religion would treat the idea of George opting for euthanasia? According toBuddhists beliefs, any and all forms of self-mortification and mistreatment of either body or mind is condemned by Buddha law.In relation to George’s unfortunate diagnosis of ALS, Buddhists view the body, mind and soul are interconnected and codependent. Per Buddhists beliefs, mercy killing cannot be justified. Mercy and killing can never go together (Sri Dhammananda, 1987). Euthanasia is essentially an act of mercy, should George choose to rid himself of his bodily form it will result in condemnation of his spirit and will result in punishment in the next life. The human body is viewed as a valuable instrument whose good health is necessary for maximizing spiritual development. As a human, George can meditate through his suffering and do good with his current form to live a life of happiness, free of suffering in his next life. How would this religion morally justify the decision that George makes? As Buddhists view life as a privilege and the self-mutilation or George’s case, euthanasia, it will not be morally justified and is rebuked by the teachings of The Buddha. Should George choose to end his sufferings and does not work out his Karma he will pay his Karma in his next existence. Per Sri Dhammananda (1987), “No matter how sincere one may be, mercy killing, is not the correct approach. The consequences of this killing, however, are different from killing with hatred towards the animal. Buddhists have no grounds to say that any kind of killing is justified.” My Own Personal View There are many answers to the question of what prime reality is, personally, one feels prime reality is living life as followed by the word of God. God is the ultimate authority, creator of all things, sustainer of life and ubiquitous. The nature of the world around us in one’s opinion, is the perpetual presence of God in all that surrounds us, i.e. nature, animals and human relationships. It is the belief of this author that human beings are beings created in the image of God, one who is incapable of moral perfection and therefore in need of God’s forgiveness; one who contributes to the world through love and creation. This author believes that one must have faith in the Lord and trust that His judgement will allow us to forever live in His kingdom of tranquility after our death, so long as the life which was lived on earth was lived through His word to the best of their abilities; God is the only being who has the capability of knowing any truth or reality. Conclusion It is important that George truly gain understanding the effects euthanasia may have in whichever religion he assumes. Whether it be Christianity or Buddhism, euthanasia is condemned in both religions, with their own set of consequences. Though the two religions differ, in George’s case the view is similar, life will have suffering, for we are imperfect and live in a world of sin. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:28-29). Of the many uncertainties in life, the topic of death and dying is a difficult one for most people to discuss openly and honestly but is necessary, as nurses we must use our knowledge to bring about these difficult conversations with our patients and their families.