Ready?

I meditate for a lot of reasons. But some might actually surprise you. At age 55, I realize that there are more years behind me than ahead. I also know of the pain and anguish that comes when someone is told that they are dying, or losing a loved one. Having been the one to have to tell someone that they are dying, is a tough conversation. But honesty and the ability to sit with them in this moment of transition is a blessing. 

Are you ready? Because death comes for us all. Some, a lot sooner then we may think. Now, I don't meditate because I am scared of death. I meditate because I want to live a life that reflects love and pure intention. I want every kiss from my wife to be meaningful. I want every person that I communicate with to know that I have heard them. I want to appreciate every sunset and see it as an eternity. As I have been meditating most of my life, am I there yet? No, but I am one step closer. 

What does it feel like to be ready? While I can't say for certain, I believe that it is total freedom. Having made amends for the past, while simultaneously allowing for love to course through their veins. While I know there are lots of people who may think they are "ready", surprisingly enough, even those who have been rooted deep in their religion or spiritually grounded, often have regrets or bargain {with their God} for more time. So what's the remedy? Love, forgiveness and the ability to stay in the present moment. 

In all those years working with the dying, I have found that it didn't matter what one believed when they were dying. It mattered how they lived. Were they compassionate, did they take chances, were they deeply moved by the human experience? Those were the ones who were ready. They lived a life that was bigger than just themselves. It was beautiful to see someone take their last breath, knowing that their next step was just an extension of love. No fear. No thoughts of being judged. Just peace. 

I woke up this morning knowing that I had to write about this. I can't tell you how to get ready. I will just say that being ready, starts long before you know you have to get ready. Start today. Love ferociously.