As a Buddhist, I have thought a lot about death with a vague idea of what my own death will be like.  In my most hopeful moments I think that my teachers and friends will pray for me and that will somehow stimulate whatever good karma I have so that I am propelled into a good next life. Or, maybe, I somehow become enlightened during the bardo as described in some of the more positive bardo teachings I have heard or read. Although I want to be humble, in truth becoming enlightened in the bardo is what I secretly hope for. (OK, no secret anymore.)

Getting into the nitty gritty of what I want as I am dying, at the moment of death, 3 days afterward and then for 49 days, not to mention specifically who I want to do what, plus what to do with my body and the Dharma items I own… well, I have not seriously delved into these details. These details are exactly what a series of 3 Spiritual Care Directive discussions I have signed up for will address. Follow the link below to access the template so you too can begin to contemplate your spiritual care wishes. https://buddhisteldercare.files.wordpress.com/2019/02/spiritual_care_directive_ryg.pdf

The program, sponsored by Rangjung Yeshe Gomde in California, https://gomdeusa.org, will meet on three Monday nights at 7:00pm PST, Feb 18,  March 4, and March 18, 2019.

These three nights are offered complimentary on behalf of Rangjung Yeshe Gomde California: Tibetan Buddhist Meditation and Retreat Center and anyone is welcome to attend. If you would like to see if you can attend by zoom or receive the recordings, please reach out to Rhonda, rhonda@peacefully-prepared.com.

I am noticing how much resistance and denial lurks as I embark on this journey to face the facts of death in a very practical way, but I am determined to continue.

I am curious about your experiences. What have you learned about Spiritual Care Directives? Better yet, what have you done to complete your own? What do you notice as you contemplate these practical details related to your death?