We pride ourselves — for better and worse — about being very open and modern in contemporary society.  Topics that were previously not spoken of in polite society are discussed openly — sex, money, race, politics, religion.  But the one thing we still do not talk about is death.

Showtime’s new series, “Time of Death,” premieres tonight, with stories of people in the last months, weeks, and moments of their lives. It is sad and it is painful. Sometimes it is raw and ugly and scary. But it is also moving. There are stories of the dying and their families finding forgiveness, meaning, and peace. There are moments of fear and also moments of courage and resilience. There is laughter and there are many tears. Above all, there are moments of absolute honesty. Watching this series will make you want to have some important conversations with your family and will give you a place to start.