This morning as I faced the bathroom mirror to brush my teeth I caught the fleshing thought “I’m grateful that I’ve woken up for yet one more day.” I was surprised by pleased by the thought but realized it had arisen due to the conditions of my practice and the news we received of the death of a family friend last night.
The man who died was my age, a father of two with no known ailments or health issues. Two days ago he went to sleep and never awoke. I think this but home due to his age and the fact that he had children but especially did to the suddenness of it. I know I always try to find reasons and excuses to explain why someone died and imagine that I could avoid the same fate just by doing something differently but that’s really just fear and delusion isn’t it.
May we take to breath the reality of death and not squander the precious gifts we possess.
Cattāri Brahmavihārā 
I’m very sorry for your loss and for the pain the deceased’s family is living. The only certain thing in life is death and no one knows when it will happen. Such is the poignancy of Dukkha. It’s so sad when children lose a parent. I wish you well and Metta.
By: Rick Zayas on 02/25/2016
at 1:23 am
Thank you Rick. Mettaya!
By: Upāsaka on 02/25/2016
at 1:35 am