Death is something no one wants to deal with, be it firsthand or going through the loss of a loved one. We do not handle death well.
That being said Buddhism teaches us that when it comes to death we should not treat it how most of the world does. We should not see it as a tragedy. It is merely the coming of something new, not the end. Death is something we all face at some point in this world and we should be prepared for it. We cannot hide from it and must face it head on.
While this is not something we consider to be easy to talk about it is an important conversation to have. Below you will find some of my most favorite quotes by Buddhist masters that were designed to help us think differently about death in itself. These quotes will leave you feeling things in ways you would not have ever considered before if you take them to heart as I have. Enjoy!
“Planning for the future is like going fishing in a dry gulch; Nothing ever works out as you wanted, so give up all your schemes and ambitions. If you have got to think about something— Make it the uncertainty of the hour of your death . .”
Sogyal Rinpoche, (The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying)
“What is born will die, What has been gathered will be dispersed, What has been accumulated will be exhausted, What has been built up will collapse, And what has been high will be brought low.”
Sogyal Rinpoche, (The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying)
“Aging destroys youth, sickness destroys health, degeneration of life destroys all excellent qualities and death destroys life. Even if you are a great runner, you cannot run away from death. you cannot stop death with your wealth, through your magic performances or recitation of mantras or even medicines. Therefore, it is wise to prepare for your death.”
14th Dalai Lama
“There is one appointed supreme executioner. Truly, trying to take the place of the supreme executioner is like trying to carve wood like a master carpenter. Of those who try to carve wood like a master carpenter, there are few who do not injure their hands.”
Lao Tzu
When it comes to death it is nothing but a starting point for something wonderful. Death is just rebirth and should be seen as something to celebrate not something to be upset over. While we do not wish to lose any of our loved ones we should be proud of them and where they are headed on their journey.
Regardless of religion, I believe death is not something that we should be so afraid of. After all, there is something good coming from it in all aspects. What is your opinion on death? Is it really as tragic as most people believe?
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