Slogan #18

The mahayana instruction for ejection of consciousness at death is the five strengths: how you conduct yourself is important.

Reflection:

Slogan 18 addresses a profound topic: how to die. I used to be terrified of the thought of my loved ones finding my lifeless body in my apartment, days or even weeks after my passing. This fear was a recurring topic in my therapy sessions. To cope, I began writing letters—goodbyes, words of forgiveness, and even angry messages to certain people. These letters were my way of preparing for my own death. They included instructions for my cremation and wishes for my ashes to be spread across Lake Ontario, specifically at the edge of the Water Plant Station in the Beaches, Toronto.

Reflecting on this slogan now, I find myself in a different place with my writing. My letters have transformed into expressions of gratitude for the many people who have touched my life. These notes capture not just the good, but also the lessons learned from each human encounter. While the fear of dying lingers, I find solace in knowing that when the time comes, my dear friends and my beloved "FRAMILY" (you all know who you are) will receive these intimate letters.

How beautiful is this life we get to live, even on the worst days. For this slogan, I urge you to notice what your body tells you when you think about death—your own or that of your loved ones. Listen quietly to your inner voices; they will always be your best guide forward. This practice has brought me peace, reminding me that I was born and will one day die, and that's okay.

By embracing these reflections, we can transform our fears into a deeper appreciation for life. It's not just about preparing for death, but about living fully and authentically. How we conduct ourselves matters, both in life and as we face it's inevitable end. This mindfulness can lead to a richer, more meaningful existence, where every moment is cherished and every relationship is honoured.