Solo Practice

This post will be brief as I am returning to New Jersey to be with family.  I have spent the last few days at my cousin's house experiencing the last days of my Aunt's life.  We expect her to pass today or tomorrow.  The reason I am even writing about it is because it's been an incredible experience.

My Aunt is in her home and everyone is there with her...caring for her...knowing it is happening even though it was only learned these past few weeks and unfortunately, untimely.   We are privileged to have each other...time is suspended, no one is thinking about their work or their personal issues...it's all about caring and celebration and unity.  It's been truly unbelievable.   There is even a lot of laughter because there is comfort in knowing we are there for one another and that life coexists with death very appropriately.  It is part of the cycle...family is together at a birth...family is together at a death.  There is a harmony.

We live such hurried lives chasing false gods dictated by ego and consumerism that sometimes we miss out on the beauty that is life...and death.  We are fearful of that which we do not understand or which terrifies us because we extoll the virtues of youth and position and posession.  This week, at least for me, it has been about understanding and dispelling fear.  Lessons learned. Values unconsciously shelved, dusted off and given prominent position in my mind and heart, once again.

I'll be back soon.