But why can’t we make space for these epiphanies before becoming palliative? Why didn’t these folks consider these important questions earlier? Why do we ignore the reality that our human life is impermanent, only to have regrets when it’s ending? But what if, by ignoring our mortality, we’re doing ourselves a giant disservice? What if mindfully thinking about our own inevitable death — our finite existence, our impermanence — were healthy for living a good life? Well, it is. Here’s why: Whatever you believe, notice your experience thinking about those beliefs — at times it might be hot and panicked, and at other times it might be calmer and less powerful. Be kind to yourself. These feelings and thoughts will come and go. So, if you’re feeling courageous, make some space for thinking about death. Notice what comes up. It’s natural that it will cause anxiety; trust that reaction is coming from your value for life and desire to continue living. Invite in that anxiety, that disquiet, feel the perceivably solid ground of your world tremble slightly. Notice how it lessens as you think about death more. Approach the topic with compassion, and remind yourself it’s a natural part of life that we’re all fortunate to experience. The payoff? A more meaningful, mindful life.
