DEATH

In the Toltec tradition, we have a practice that helps us increase our awareness of the beauty of life by befriending an unlikely ally: death.

Imagine what would happen if you stopped living as if you will be around forever, and you embraced the truth that each day is a gift beyond measure. The angel of death can come for you at any moment.

When you are aware of your own mortality - not as something to fear, but as a friend and teacher - every moment becomes crisp and perfect just as it is. Colors are richer, friendships are more precious, and problems lose their hold on you. It becomes more important to joyfully wring every drop out of each day than to worry about what was or what might have been.

Practice

Pose this question to yourself: “If today were the last day of my life, how would I treat myself and others? What conversations would I have that I’ve been putting off? What would I choose to enjoy today?”

Living a Life of Awareness

~ Don Miguel Ruiz Jr.