We are spirits*
That bodies should be lent us so long as they can afford us pleasure*
assist us in acquiring knowledge*
or in doing good to our fellowmen*
is a kind and benevolent act of God***
When they become unfit for these purposes, and afford us pain instead of pleasure*
and instead of an aid become an incumbrance*
it is equally kind and benevolent that a way is provided by which we may depart from them.*
Death is that way***
It is as if our friend and we were invited to a houseparty, which is to last forever.*
His chair was ready first, and he has gone before us.*
We could not all conveniently start together*
And we should not be grieved at this, since we some day will follow, and know where to find him.***

Benjamin Franklin