31/07/2024
There is no guarantee that the old will leave the world early. In this degenerate period, it’s of immense importance to prepare ourselves for death. Sooner or later, it’s just a matter of time. Old or young, small or big, man or woman, child or adult, rich or poor, powerful or weak, have no time to look back. No question of why or when. Death is imminent.
Indeed, we die every day, but few realize it. Each day, each moment, we reap what we sow. Good or bad, conscious or unconscious, direct or indirect, we harvest our actions. Yesterday, she was vibrant and full of life. I saw her singing and playing happily with her friends. Even now, I see her smiling face and hear her whisper, “Uncle, can I have a packet of Maggie?” Today, she’s gone, believe it or not. Today, she’s gone. Tomorrow, it could be us. We are all in a queue, like people waiting for a city bus or a concert ticket.
How often does the thought of impermanence strike our minds? How often do we recite mantras? Do we contemplate death before sleep? What are our life’s priorities? I write this to connect more deeply with humanity. There’s no time to waste. Enlightened ones have often reminded us, but we rarely heed their wisdom. It’s never too early to prepare. May the essence of Dharma purify my body, mind, and speech like a gentle sea breeze. May wisdom’s rain wash away my deluded mind. May skillful methods guide me like a shadow in a clear sky.
Written in memory of a young fifth-grade neighbor.