Intellectually we know that we are going to die. However, because we don’t have methods for thinking clearly about death, we don’t allow this knowledge to touch our heart. As a result, we tend to avoid thinking or talking about this inevitability. This is a loss, because heartfelt awareness of our impermanence will lead us to living a very meaningful life.
Currently we have a precious human life, with all the freedoms and endowments necessary to make great spiritual progress. However, if we avoid thinking about death, this precious opportunity can easily be wasted.
“If we base our life on a realistic awareness of our mortality we will regard our spiritual development as far more important than the attainments of this world, and we will view our time in this world principally as an opportunity to cultivate positive minds such as patience, love, compassion and wisdom.” – Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche
To be able to die with a happy mind, we need to train throughout our life. By training our mind to remain peaceful and calm during difficult circumstances, we can prepare ourselves to keep a happy mind when we die. This is very important.
“Spiritual practice is what gives meaning to our lives, and by applying our practice at the time of death we can die joyfully and experience pure, lasting happiness in all our future lives.” – Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche
About this workshop
Everyone is welcome to join our Saturday morning workshops. No previous experience of meditation is needed, nor is any special clothing required. Most people sit on chairs, though meditation cushions are provided for those that wish to use them.
The workshops are presented in easy-to-understand English and are attended by people with a great variety of backgrounds and cultures. As the workshop takes place in a buddhist meditation centre, it will start with a short buddhist prayer.
Each workshop consists of two teaching sessions with meditations, and a light brunch is served between them.
