Contrary to habit I’ve made a new year’s resolution. It has to do with a recent conversation about ‘how does one prepare for dying’ with a Zen teacher. “I want you to imagine sitting in your doctor’s office,” he said, “being told that you have one year to live. What would that be like, how would you live these 365 day and nights? What needs to be done? How will you spend your remaining days? How will death come? Who will be there? What’ll happen to your body during and immediately after death? What will happen to your ‘stuff’? Will there be a ceremony or celebration? Looking down, what does your body look like? What are people saying and feeling about you — 2 months, a year, 2 years, 5 years, 20 years, 100 years later?”
I almost fainted fearing another heart attack. I knew that this could be the most difficult and important tasks — one that could lead me to (and beyond) the gates of fear. It would require courage and perseverance. And I knew I’d do it. Deep bow.
Dear Reader, does this assignment ring any bells for you? Would you like to join on this spiritual journey? Together we’ll address the most important questions there are: How will I die? How will I live between now and then?
My plan is to post here each week for the next 50 weeks. Anyone is free to join and walk at their own pace, united by a common purpose. You may participate anonymously or post occasional comments.
Traditionally, pilgrims set out on foot, lacking maps and compass, guided only by the stars, occasional signposts, and a deep wish to find that which is unspoken.
Thanks Peter for this. I was upraised by the first thought that came to me when I read this. I said to myself I would do the same as I am doing right now. On reflection though I would try and do them better with more intention.
My first step in joining you in the journey occurred this morning when I realized how deeply I desire being able to bring my mind gently to my chosen focal point. I want to cultivate this in preparation for a time when this may be less within my ability. I have spent three weeks in recent months on dementia units in hospital with my 96 year old mother, greatly deepening awareness of how important this ‘work’ is – now. I will walk with you, and others Peter.
The last 7 years all my dear ones passed away , one after the other and death came so near that it became impossible to ignore it anymore..great companion that has changed everything..Even if in good health and only 68 i I think that organising a decent Exitfor myself is a good thing and it has to be done. So here I am ..happy if there are others to walk together
This is a beautiful idea! It reminds me of following someone’s footsteps in the sand on the beach. I would hope that someone would even want to walk in my footsteps one day…..sooo…I will be treading lightly with peace in my heart.
I will walk along with you Peter and others too. As a Hospice Palliative Care nurse I am privy to bearing witness to many things. I often think about what is important, and what I would want. I know what I don’t want if I had a say in things. The thought also brings up some fear about what I cannot control.
Thank you for the invitation.
Deep bow
Tracy
Dear spiritual companion, we are always together on this journey. I have made so many plans for my funeral, I am just glad I did not write any of them down as trees would suffer. I have been on this journey a long time already, having registered for hospice in January 2013. Only two inspirations of notice have come of it as yet – each dawn is brighter and every friend more precious. Peace and love, Nigel
I will also join you on this Pilgrimage – like others, I feel I am already on this journey based on the events of my past year, but know the value of company along the way. A lovely invitation. Thankyou!
I am embracing the word pilgrimage. It gives me so much permission to just explore without a clear map. This is quite something for someone who is used to words such as goals, targets and outcomes. There seems to be some freedom in being on a pilgrimage. Thank you for including us in your pilgrimage.
Peter,
This post is profoundly moving. I feel honoured to have received this message on many levels. Thank you.
Thank you, Peter.
This is big…..and taking the first step by joining your band of pilgrims is comforting. Blessings.
Dear Peter, I would be honored to join you and all the others in this pilgrimage. These are questions I have been grappling with since a cancer dx several years back and more recently, as I sit at the bedside of my mother who slowly is fading away. Thank you for the invite. Deep bow back to you. (I love the picture accompanying your post.)
Sure, I’ll participate in this journey. Though you may not see postings from me. I’m posting-shy, or at least have been. And probably would be even it was my last year to do such posting.
I am packed – got my courage and perseverance and an increase of my awareness on how I will live then next 361 days. Thank you Peter and others.