This book is an intriguing description of an old mans battle with death. More specifically that man is suffering from Lou Gehrigs disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); a disease that affects the neurological system. There is no cure for this disease, and the only good that can come out of having it is the chance to say goodbye. The chance to educate people on the meaning of life and the chance to give back what so many have given you. I think Morrie does exactly that, in this novel and in life.
In this novel there are two people that are at the base of the story and several supporting people for both Morrie and Mitch. Mitch is a former student of Morries who has come back to bid his professor and his good friend goodbye. While doing this, Morrie and Mitch both agree to do a final thesis on Morries death. They meet on Tuesdays and discuss several different topics about life. Mitch films these sessions in hopes of being able to watch them after Morries passing, and to help him in writing this thesis. As Morrie gets into the final stages of his illness he can no longer do anything except talk, and even that is quickly passing away.
Morrie said that he knew it would be bad when he could no longer wipe his ass. But when that time came he said he actually enjoyed it, that it was like being a baby again. Morrie demonstrates tremendous caring in this book; trying to help people until the very end. He even goes as far as to say that if he could have another son he wishes that it could be Mitch. The final session ends with Morrie telling Mitch he loves him and Mitch doing the same and they both start to cry; something Mitch said he would never do. Morrie spends his final days with his nuclear family and dies alone in his bed, almost like he had planned it that way.
This is probably one of the best books Ive ever read. The lessons you learn just by reading the book are tremendous. Morrie is a great professor, even after his death, as this book proves to be true. I know Ill never forget this book and the numerous lessons it has taught me. Life is a precious thing, live for the now.
