The Fourth Contemplation

A friend in her forties almost died recently from an accidental overdose.

It reminded me that we never know when death will reach out for us.

That thought reminded me of the Fourth Contemplation: "My life span is not fixed. Human life expectancy is uncertain; death can come at any time."

The Nine Contemplations, written in the 11th century by the Buddhist monk and scholar Atisha, addresses the twisting, jeweled path of life and ultimately death. They are a quiet warning of the inevitable and the need for preparation, so that we can go beyond fear and live a fully engaged life.

 Each Contemplation moves me but knowing a friend faced death for a few critical days, was on life support, and now is slowly returning to her functioning body, really shook me up. 

I never want to take a day or a minute for granted. I want to live consciously every moment. I don't want to squander my time. 

I want to be ready for death when it is time for my life to end.

This is my intention. 

It motivates me to dance and to write and to be with loved ones and to hike in nature and to roast lots of vegetables.