Last week, I wrote about acknowledging your own mortality as the first step on the road to embracing your mortality. (You can re-read that issue here.) This week, I want to address a subject that is just as difficult - the mortality of others.
I recently had to attend a funeral. Most people aren't fond of funerals. My feeling is that there are two main reasons that we don't like funerals, or thinking/talking about death in general. The first reason is that it can be difficult to process and cope with the loss that has been caused by the death of a loved-one or friend. The second reason is that it reminds us of our own impending mortality.
In my own experience, coming to terms with my mortality has really helped me to acknowledge and accept the mortality of others as well.
Once you accept the fact that everyone around you is mortal, you will begin to think more carefully about your interactions with those for whom you care. You might find that you are more patient and forgiving with people. You may also find that your awareness of each other's mortality gives you a strong desire to resolve differences as quickly as possible and not let anything go unsettled.
Last year I did a series of workshops at the national convention of the Funeral Service Association of Canada. When I spoke with the funeral directors about people's reactions at funerals, they told me that the number one comment that they hear from the bereaved loved-ones is that they didn't get enough time to say everything they wanted to say.
Today, I urge you to begin to think about the mortality of YOUR loved ones and ensure that nothing is ever left unsaid.
ENJOY NOW!
