The Personal Preparation for a Peaceful Death

A philosopher once said that human beings are being-towards-death.

As stated in the Agama Sutra, "Disasters, aging, illness, and death are what often leave sentient beings in torment." 

No one knows which will arrive first: tomorrow or death. Although we cannot control our lifespan, we can actively create depth and value within our lives.

When a life meets its end, it marks the start of a new journey. Before embarking on the next journey, make an advance directive, write your will, establish faith, and cultivate good relations. Load your travel bag with virtuous aspirations and the merits and wisdom that you have accumulated throughout everyday life. 

With such preparation, a solitary end may still be a graceful journey.


 


Resource: Issue 452 of Humanity Magazine (April 2021), Dharma Drum Publishing Corporation
Original Chinese text: Editorial team of Humanity Magazine
Translation: Li Siang-ling
Editing: Keith Brown, Claire