Reflections on life, death and what matters in between
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Latest Thoughts
The impact of nothing days
Diem non captum. A reflection on how to handle Nothing Days, and when they can be useful.
“Allow for a quiet moment, and remind yourself why it will be alright.”
A good ol’ nothing-burger of a day today. We all come upon them from time-to-time.
Maybe it’s the extra day within a long weekend or a buffer day after a vacation. Maybe it’s a rainy day that commands you to stay in bed. Maybe it’s a day just like any other.
For whatever reason, it turns out to be a day that you’ve decided to say, “Fuck it” to. And behold: The Nothing Day.
There’s no work to be done. There’s no reason to go outside. There’s nothing to look forward to. The world is off until next time.
Diem non captum.
Oh, well. As long as these days aren’t too often, they seem quite fine. Your body will even tell you when you need a nothing day after too many in a row of the opposite variety.
So don’t feel to guilty about it. Hell, enjoy it. It’s a day off from all this, just for you. R&R that ND. Have something fun for dinner too, while you’re at it.
That said, if you are still feeling guilty about it, maybe some loose change is in order. It’s likely you’ve had too many nothing-burgers in a row and you feel like shit for it. Not to worry, we’ve all been there, and there’s a sure path back to enjoying The Nothing Day again. It starts with…
Eh, it can wait until tomorrow.
Related Poetry
Still Moments
From Fire & Earth: A ThoughPose Poetry Collection | 9/1/2024
Still, they can’t be captured
The moments must remain free
Just retrievable to try and reimagine
For less than what they were at the time
But something more than a mere memory
Still, they will remain dormant until awoken
By a look or a smell or a phrase or a melody
Like an innocent secret between all of those
That might have been right there, right then
Search as they flash in images, like looking
Into an old, damaged View-Master lens,
But not having control over the lever to
Cycle through each still frame in order
So the reel spins chaotically so as to
See them all at once; they tell such
A different story than expected
Still, they’re a nice reminder
Where one comes from,
Who one is made of
What was vs. is
And to take a
Moment now
And again to
Just sit and
Be Still
Bestill
Be
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Loose Change
A short reflection on changing, for good.
A short reflection on changing, for good.
A good lesson my wife taught me: stop using the word “should”.
There’s a mission-critical practice in trying to DO the thing you know you SHOULD do, as often as you can.
So, “Do the right thing.” How hard can that be?
Well… who’s to say what’s right and what’s wrong? It’s not just black and white. There are decisions, big and small, where it seems like there is no right answer. Plus sometimes the gray is more fun, anyway (in moderation, of course).
But for the most part, you know what you should be doing. At the very least, you can come up with a cohesive list of what NOT to do.
This gets back to tuning your intuition radio, getting good at deciding to do what you know to be best.
Start with the small things, as appropriate. Not judging here - maybe you think you should clean up after yourself, or stretch more often, or start walking in the mornings, or spend less time on your phone (I try to make these quick, so then you can get the hell out of here and get back to the real world). Or maybe you think you should take a break.
The next few times you think to yourself, “I should [insert small-to-medium-sized task]” - Just go and knock it out. See how many times you can turn a shoulda/woulda/coulda into a checkmark.
These well-intentioned decisions will accumulate, and you’ll start getting it “right” more often. Won’t be perfect. Won’t be all at once. Small changes, for good.
Right?
Related Poetry
Snake Skin
From Fire & Earth: A ThoughPose Poetry Collection | 11/23/2023
Deconstructing,
Though more destructive
But slow and in layers
Similar to an old snake
Shedding skin
For the fifth or sixth time,
Flaky and then slick
With fresh, breathing oil
Painted anew,
Detached from old
Yet with the same exact patterns -
Sand
From Air & Water: A ThoughtPose Poetry Collection | 7/2/2019
sand in the glass
a time with limits
the moment of pause
sand in the ocean
a shore with edges
the horizon of _________
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The art of balancing
At the equilibrium of your experience, there exists the perfect mix of elements...
Balance. At the equilibrium of your experience, there exists the perfect mix of elements - the concoction of your optimal self.
The elements are derived from different areas of life that make up who you are (what you’re made of). Relationships, community, health, work, passions, time spent - the mix evolves over time, and you’re in charge of managing it.
If you focus too much on any one area, you become off-balance with one or more of the others and thus are not at your equilibrium. And it doesn’t feel right. And you know it doesn’t.
That equilibrium is a moving target. You may feel perfectly balanced one moment - for just a moment - only for the wind to change and have you lose it again. It becomes a difficult, elegant dance that you need to try and learn the steps to.
That said, it’s not so bad to be off-balance from time-to-time, and to learn the process for regaining your footing. It’s good practice, along with “tuning your radio” like we talked about last time.
Just don’t tip to far in any one direction. Always be listening, become a fluid dancer. Be ready to improvise.
You’ll start to feel like you’re in that equilibrium pocket more and more often. Things will make more sense. Your relationships will improve. You’ll feel healthier. Your time will be well spent. You will learn to love the art of balancing more than the feeling of being balanced. That’s what it’s all about.
Related Poetry
Balance
From Air & Water: A ThoughPose Poetry Collection | 7/8/2018
Back and forth along the keel
Stacking up chips,
Selling them for cash
An equipoise, this act
A dance against stillness
All for the chance of it
State
From Air & Water: A ThoughPose Poetry Collection | 7/22/2018
Rhythmic seasons
A gentle fall
Into sure carriage
Light patterns
Well-nigh rest
A balance in being
My stead
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Why meaning usually shows up quietly
What does it all mean?!
“Allow for a quiet moment, and remind yourself why it will be alright.”
What does it all mean?!
Not in the abstract — but right here, in the middle of an ordinary day.
There’s so much noise now that it’s hard to stay present from one moment to the next, let alone extract any sense of meaning from it. Everything feels slightly out of tune, like you’re one notch off on a radio dial.
There’s something there — a hint of a song. You can almost make out the melody, but the static keeps interrupting it. Eventually, the static becomes so constant and overwhelming that it stops registering as noise at all. It just becomes the background - matter-less nothingness.
But that song feels familiar. Like one you already knew, just hadn’t been listening for.
Most of what we call meaning shows up this way. Not as answers, but as signals. Small nudges. A sense of alignment. A quiet moment that sits with you. True North.
Tuning into that requires less force than we think. It usually starts with attention. With presence. With gratitude. With noticing what keeps returning to the surface when things get quiet.
Over time, those small moments of listening add up. They shape how we move, what we choose, and how we carry ourselves through ordinary days. Meaning doesn’t announce itself all at once. It accumulates.
So don’t worry too much about finding meaning. Just find yourself in as many moments as you can. Practice this. Meaning will find you.
Related Poetry
ARM
From Fire & Earth: A ThoughPose Poetry Collection | 1/28/2024
A real moment
Almost, where
Healing scabs can
Only be reopened so often
Before they are just your skin
A real moment
Even this one second
Recognized with weight,
Carrying all seconds prior -
They strike again all at once
A real moment
The moment itself, Isolated
Like an imaginary, familiar voice
Then, is it an impossible paradox
To experience it, and know it’s happening?
A real moment
Shared amongst multiple
Perspectives, captured within
A casual glance, a well-intentioned
Smile… A being that feels whole and
Indestructible, already in a million pieces
A real moment
The one we had
Been waiting for
It passes by, but not
By us; we are carried by it
Where even the ones not with us
Can be just as real as anything else
Missing
From Air & Water: A ThoughtPose Poetry Collection | 7/4/2018
On an old rock, writing in a dead tree
Leaves fall atop a toxic river,
As it all floods into my dry mouth
I look down at the mud I stepped in to get here
Look up at the empty space I'll never fill
I'll miss these moments,
I'll keep missing these moments
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The GOODbye: Exploring Death’s Role in Living a Meaningful Life
When you’re laying on your deathbed, will you be proud of the life you lived?
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“Child of the way,
I leave at last -
A willow on the shore.”
Introduction: Reframing Death as a Profound and Beautiful Part of Life
Death is an experience that unites us all. It’s a certainty that transcends borders, beliefs, and boundaries - a shared destiny woven into the very fabric of existence. Yet, how we approach death varies dramatically from one culture to another—and even from one person to the next. In many parts of the world (and especially in western cultures), death is cloaked in fear, treated as a grim finality that we’d rather ignore or postpone indefinitely. This perspective is far from universal, and is not the most useful or fulfilling way to view the end of life.
Instead, death can be seen as a profound teacher, a mirror reflecting the beauty and transience of life. It’s not an ending, but a passage—perhaps even a celebration of transformation. By embracing a refreshed perspective on “the end”, we can unlock a deeper sense of gratitude for the fleeting miracle of life and learn to live more fully. This paper explores how cultures, philosophies, and personal practices can help us reframe death not as something to fear but as an integral and awe-inspiring part of our existence, something to perhaps even look forward to, in a way. Let’s explore.
Cultural Perspectives: A World of Contrasts
Around the globe, the way societies view death reveals much about their values, history and philosophies. Some cultures celebrate death as a release, a homecoming, or a transition to a higher plane. Others regard it with dread, reflecting a fear of the unknown or an attachment to the material world. Examining these differences sheds light on how our beliefs about death shape our lives—and offers us an opportunity to rethink our own perspectives.
Celebrating Death: Lessons from Around the World
In Mexico, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) exemplifies a celebration of life through the lens of death. Far from a somber occasion, this tradition embraces colorful altars, joyful parades, and offerings to departed loved ones. The dead are remembered with fondness and even humor, reinforcing the idea that they are still part of the family, just on a different plane of existence.
Elsewhere, many Indigenous Australian communities view death as a return to the Dreaming, the timeless spiritual landscape that connects all beings. For them, death is not an end but a continuation, a reunification with the ancestors who shaped the world.
Similarly, Tibetan Buddhists regard death as a natural part of the cycle of existence. The Tibetan Book of the Dead (discussed in detail later) provides guidance for navigating the transition from one life to the next, treating death as a transformative process rather than a tragedy.
Western Perspectives: Fear, Denial, and Avoidance
By contrast, much of the Western world has developed a deeply negative view of death, treating it as a failure rather than a natural event. This perspective is rooted in several factors:
Religious Origins: In Christian theology, death is often associated with sin and judgment, casting it as a moment of reckoning rather than release. The fear of eternal damnation or divine punishment has historically shaped Western attitudes toward mortality, introducing fear and unnecessary caution with each passing day.
Medicalization of Death: Modern healthcare systems tend to focus on prolonging life at all costs, often isolating dying individuals in sterile hospital rooms. Death has become something to be "managed" rather than embraced, disconnecting us from its spiritual and emotional significance. Dr. Lydia Dugdale speaks to this in her renowned work The Lost Art of Dying, reflecting on her own experiences in geriatric care and medicine’s role in disrupting the natural process of death.
Cultural Avoidance: Western cultures are steeped in youth-worship and productivity, leaving little room to openly discuss or prepare for death. Everyone must be (or appear to be) so busy and entrenched in daily tasks, there simply is no time to worry about something perceived to be out of one’s control and far removed from the here and now. Euphemisms like "passing away" sanitize the reality, pushing death further into the shadows.
Attachment to Materialism: In societies driven by consumerism, death is seen as the ultimate loss - not just of life but of possessions, status, and identity. This attachment exacerbates the fear of letting go, and suggests that one will leave behind more than what they may carry with them to the other side.
Understanding these cultural dynamics invites us to question whether they serve us - or whether we might benefit from integrating wisdom from cultures that view death more holistically.
The Tibetan Book of the Dead: A Guide to Life, Death, and Beyond
Few texts offer as profound a perspective on death as the Bardo Thodol, commonly known as The Tibetan Book of the Dead. Originating in the 8th century, this sacred Buddhist scripture was intended to guide the deceased through the process of dying, navigating the spiritual realms of the afterlife, and ultimately attaining liberation. But its teachings extend beyond death itself, offering wisdom for navigating the transformative moments of life.
Through its vivid imagery and spiritual insights, the Bardo Thodol reframes death not as an end, but as a pivotal moment in an ongoing cycle. Its teachings on the Bardos—intermediate states between different phases of existence—provide a lens for understanding not just the process of dying, but the countless "mini-deaths" we encounter in daily life.
A Brief History of the Tibetan Book of the Dead
The Bardo Thodol is rooted in Tibetan Buddhism, a tradition that emphasizes the impermanence of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. Attributed to the teachings of Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist master, the text was initially passed down orally before being compiled by monks. It has since become one of the most influential works in Buddhist literature.
Central to the book is the belief in reincarnation: the idea that our actions (karma) influence the circumstances of our next life. But the ultimate goal is to break free from this cycle of birth, death, and rebirth—to achieve enlightenment and liberation.
Understanding the Bardos
The word "Bardo" translates to "intermediate state" or "in-between." In Tibetan Buddhism, Bardos are the transitional phases that occur between death and rebirth, but they are also understood as moments of transformation that arise throughout life.
Bardos of the Death Process: According to the Bardo Thodol, the death process unfolds in three stages:
The Chikhai Bardo: The moment of death, when the individual experiences the "clear light" of pure consciousness. This is an opportunity for the soul to recognize its true nature and attain liberation.
The Chonyid Bardo: The intermediate state where visions and illusions, shaped by one's karma, arise. This phase tests the soul's ability to let go of attachments and fears.
The Sidpa Bardo: The phase of rebirth, during which the soul is drawn to a new body based on its karma and desires.
These stages emphasize the importance of mindfulness and preparation, as the soul’s reactions during each phase determine its spiritual trajectory.
Bardos of Life: Beyond the afterlife, the concept of Bardos applies to daily life as well. Each decision, change, or challenge can be seen as a "mini-death"—an opportunity to let go of the old and embrace the new. Examples include:
The end of a relationship, career, or stage of life.
Moments of personal transformation, such as choosing to confront a fear or break a habit.
Times of reflection, where we confront the transient nature of our experiences.
Viewing these transitions as Bardos encourages us to approach them with mindfulness and courage, knowing they are opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
The Light Within and Collective Consciousness
A central theme of the Bardo Thodol is the "pure light" of consciousness, which is said to be the true essence of all beings. This light is often obscured by fear, ignorance, and attachment, but death offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with it.
The text also hints at a greater collective consciousness—a universal thread that connects all living beings. This idea aligns with modern philosophical and scientific explorations of interconnectedness, from the shared experiences of near-death experiences (NDEs) to the phenomenon of synchronicity to even physics-based theories involving quantum entanglement.
Moments where we feel "everything, everywhere, all at once” - whether through meditation, creative flow, or profound love - reflect this connection. These glimpses of transcendence remind us that our individual identities are part of a greater whole, and that death may not sever this connection but deepen it.
Karma and Reincarnation
The Bardo Thodol places great emphasis on karma, the principle that our actions create ripples that shape our future experiences. During life, our choices build a "karmic score" that influences the circumstances of our next existence. But the ultimate goal is to transcend karma altogether by cultivating wisdom, compassion, and detachment.
Reincarnation, often misunderstood in Western contexts, is not a mere recycling of identity. Instead, it is seen as an opportunity to learn, grow, and ultimately escape the cycle of suffering. Liberation, or nirvana, is the state of freedom from this cycle - a return to the pure light of consciousness.
The text challenges us to ask: Why would we want to live forever in an endless loop of rebirths? Liberation is not about annihilation but about transcending the illusions of individuality and separation to merge with the infinite.
Practical Lessons for Life
The teachings of the Bardo Thodol are not just for the dying - they are for the living. By recognizing the Bardos in our own lives, we can:
Embrace change: Every ending is a beginning. Approach life’s transitions with curiosity and courage.
Cultivate mindfulness: Awareness of the present moment helps us connect with the light within and navigate life’s challenges with grace.
Prepare for death: By reflecting on our lives and cultivating virtues like gratitude, compassion, and wisdom, we can approach death with peace and clarity.
The Bardo Thodol reminds us that life and death are not opposites but part of the same continuum. The more we embrace this truth, the more fully we can live—and the more gracefully we can let go when the time comes.
Near-Death Experiences: A Glimpse Beyond the Veil
“Neuro Surgeon Dies; Gets Shown Truth about Re-incarnation and Quantum World (NDE)” - From “The Other Side NDE” YouTube Channel
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are among the most intriguing phenomena related to death. They occur when individuals are brought to the brink of death - or even declared clinically dead—and then resuscitated. These accounts often share strikingly similar elements, transcending cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries. For many, they serve as a tantalizing glimpse into what might await us after we take our final breath.
The patterns and themes found in NDEs echo the teachings of ancient texts like The Tibetan Book of the Dead, providing modern validation of ideas that have been explored for centuries. By examining these experiences, we can develop a deeper understanding of death as not just an end, but as a gateway to a profound and transformative journey.
Common Themes in Near-Death Experiences
Despite the diversity of individuals who report NDEs, there are remarkable consistencies in the stories they share. Some of the most commonly reported elements include:
Separation from the Body: Many describe a sensation of leaving their physical body, often accompanied by the ability to observe their surroundings from above. This experience suggests that consciousness may not be confined to the physical self.
The Tunnel and the Light: A large proportion of NDE accounts feature a tunnel leading toward a brilliant, loving light. This light is often described as overwhelmingly peaceful and welcoming, embodying a sense of unconditional love.
Life Review: Some individuals experience a panoramic review of their lives, often accompanied by heightened emotional awareness. They report reliving key moments not just from their own perspective, but from the perspective of others affected by their actions.
Encounters with Beings or Loved Ones: Many NDEs include meetings with deceased loved ones or other beings of light, who often provide comfort or guidance.
A Sense of Unity: A powerful feeling of interconnectedness is frequently reported, where the individual feels at one with the universe or a greater consciousness. Some describe this as merging with the source of all existence.
Reluctance to Return: While the decision to return to life is often voluntary (or perceived as such), many express a reluctance to leave the peace and love of the afterlife.
These themes, though varied in detail, share a deep emotional and spiritual resonance. They suggest that the process of death may be far more intricate and beautiful than many imagine.
The Connection to The Tibetan Book of the Dead
The parallels between NDEs and The Tibetan Book of the Dead are striking. The Bardo Thodol describes the transition between life and death as a journey through intermediate states (Bardos), guided by light and visions. Here’s how these teachings align with NDE accounts:
The Clear Light: The brilliant light described in NDEs mirrors the "pure light of consciousness" referenced in the Bardo Thodol. This light is seen as the essence of the soul’s true nature, offering an opportunity for liberation.
Life Review and Karma: The life review experienced by many aligns with the Tibetan emphasis on karma and self-reflection. It’s a moment to understand the impact of one’s actions and learn from them, reinforcing the idea of interconnectedness.
Encounters with Beings: The Bardo Thodol speaks of encounters with deities or manifestations of one’s own mind during the Chonyid Bardo. Similarly, NDEs often involve meeting luminous beings or loved ones, which may be interpreted as a reflection of the soul’s journey.
Fear and Liberation: Both the Bardo Thodol and NDE accounts emphasize the importance of letting go of fear. In Tibetan teachings, fear during the Bardos can lead to unfavorable rebirths, while in NDEs, fear is often replaced by an overwhelming sense of peace and love.
Scientific Perspectives on NDEs
Skeptics often attribute NDEs to neurological phenomena, such as oxygen deprivation, chemical imbalances, or the brain’s attempt to process trauma. While these explanations are worth exploring, they don’t fully account for the profound spiritual and transformative aspects of NDEs. For example:
Veridical perception: Some NDE accounts include details that individuals could not have observed from their physical vantage point, such as events in nearby rooms.
Cross-cultural consistency: The universality of NDE themes suggests something beyond cultural conditioning or individual belief systems.
Whether seen as evidence of an afterlife or as a deep connection to the collective unconscious, NDEs challenge us to rethink the boundaries of life and death.
Practical Lessons from NDEs
Near-death experiences offer powerful lessons for the living, encouraging us to:
Focus on Connection: Many NDE survivors report that the most important takeaway from their experience was the value of love and relationships.
Release the Fear of Death: By understanding death as a transition rather than an end, we can live with greater peace and courage.
Embrace Life Fully: The heightened appreciation for life reported by many NDE survivors reminds us to savor the present moment and prioritize what truly matters.
Losing Loved Ones: Navigating Grief and Finding Peace
The death of a loved one is among the most challenging experiences we face as human beings. It is a raw and profound reminder of our shared mortality, and the grief that follows can feel all-consuming. Yet, with the right perspective, the process of mourning can also be transformative - a time for deep reflection, growth, and connection to the mysteries of life and death.
By reframing death as a natural and even beautiful part of existence, we can better support ourselves and others through this difficult transition. Drawing on wisdom from various cultures, philosophies, and practical strategies, we can approach the death of loved ones with compassion, courage, and a deeper sense of peace.
Helping Loved Ones Find Peace
When someone we care about is nearing the end of their life, our role is both a privilege and a responsibility. Providing comfort and fostering a sense of closure can make their transition more meaningful - for them and for us.
Be Present: One of the greatest gifts you can give a dying loved one is your presence. Sit with them, listen to their stories, and allow them to share their fears and hopes without judgment. Your calm and supportive presence - just that alone - can provide immense comfort.
Encourage Reflection: Help them look back on their life with a sense of pride and gratitude. This might involve discussing meaningful memories, relationships, or accomplishments, or simply reminding them of the love they’ve brought into the world.
Facilitate Closure: If possible, encourage conversations or actions that bring unresolved matters to a close—whether through apologies, forgiveness, or expressions of love. Closure can ease their emotional burden and help them find peace.
Honor Their Beliefs: Respect their spiritual or cultural practices regarding death, even if they differ from your own. These practices of reassurance can provide a framework for navigating the uncertainty of dying and offer comfort to both the individual and their loved ones.
Coping with Grief as the Living
The grieving process is intensely personal, and there is no “right” way to mourn. However, reframing our understanding of death can help us navigate grief in a way that fosters healing and growth.
Allow Yourself to Feel: Grief is not something to suppress or rush through. Allow yourself to experience the full range of emotions - sadness, anger, confusion, even relief - and recognize them as a natural part of the process.
Celebrate Their Life: Instead of focusing solely on their absence, celebrate the impact they had on your life. Create rituals or keepsakes that honor their memory, such as planting a tree, crafting a scrapbook, or sharing stories with loved ones.
Seek Meaning: Reflect on the ways their death can inspire you to live more fully. Many cultures view death as a reminder of the preciousness of life, encouraging us to embrace gratitude and presence.
Connect with Others: Grief can feel isolating, but sharing your feelings with others who knew and loved the deceased can be deeply healing. These connections remind us of the shared human experience of loss and love.
Trust in the Journey: Whether or not you believe in an afterlife, trusting that death is part of a larger cycle can help bring comfort. The teachings of The Tibetan Book of the Dead and insights from near-death experiences suggest that death is not an end, but a transformation.
A Shared Human Experience
Grief is not a sign of weakness; it is a testament to the depth of our love and the interconnectedness of all beings. By embracing death as an integral part of life, we can transform our mourning into an opportunity for reflection, connection, and growth.
Preparing for Death Yourself: Living a Life Worth Leaving
“Now then,
for my journey to the yonder world
I’ll wear a gown of flowers”
Death may be inevitable, but how we approach it is entirely up to us. Preparing for death throughout our lives can help transform our perception of it from a source of fear into a culmination of purpose and fulfillment. This preparation is not about resigning ourselves to mortality - it’s about ensuring that when the time comes, we can meet it with peace, gratitude, and even a sense of triumph.
The wisdom explored in earlier sections can provide a roadmap for this preparation. Cultivating gratitude, embracing change, and living with intention will ensure that we are proud of the lives we’ve lived and ready for what comes next.
The Gift of Gratitude
At its core, preparing for death is about recognizing the extraordinary gift and opportunity of life. Gratitude allows us to fully appreciate this fleeting miracle, transforming even mundane moments into profound experiences.
Practice Gratitude Daily: Set aside time each day or week to reflect on the things you’re thankful for. Whether it’s the simple joy of a sunrise or the deep connection of a friendship, gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have. This practice is easy to adopt and can serve as a steady reminder that awareness and mindfulness are key to navigating life’s transitions.
Embrace Relationships: As highlighted in near-death experiences, love and connection are the most cherished aspects of life. Invest in your relationships, express your appreciation often, and create memories that will bring peace to you and others when the time to part comes.
Find Meaning in the Small Moments: The Bardos of life - those transitions and challenges we face daily - offer countless opportunities to practice letting go and finding peace. Every choice to be present, courageous, or kind is a small rehearsal for the ultimate letting go. Sometimes it’s the little things in life that turn out to be the biggest.
Living with Intention
A life well-lived doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, reflection, and the courage to face the “mini-deaths” of everyday decisions.
Make the Tough Choices: Life constantly asks us to sacrifice short-term comfort for long-term growth. Whether it’s pursuing a passion, ending a toxic relationship, or taking a risk that aligns with your values, these moments require mindfulness and the courage to do the hard thing. Each choice to step into the unknown strengthens your ability to face life - and death - with courage.
Revisit and Resolve: Referring back to the idea of karmic debts, we can prepare for death by resolving regrets and unfinished business. Reflect on past decisions and, where possible, seek reconciliation. Imagine reliving those moments in your mind, but with the wisdom you now have. This practice can help clean the “dirt” off your light, making way for clarity and peace.
Focus on the Present: While preparing for the future is important, true fulfillment comes from being fully present. In this space between thoughts - what the Bardo Thodol describes as the “clear light” - we find the essence of life itself. Meditation and mindfulness practices can help us connect with this clarity and calm.
Time Travel: Healing the Past and Shaping the Future
Death teaches us that time is precious, but the way we experience time is not linear—it is malleable. By reflecting on the past and envisioning the future, we can shape our present in profound ways.
Healing the Past: If there are moments in your life that still weigh on you, revisit them with compassion. Imagine yourself acting differently, choosing kindness or courage instead of regret. This act of mental time travel can help you process unresolved emotions and reframe those moments as opportunities for growth.
Manifesting the Future: Visualize the life you want to live and the legacy you wish to leave behind, and practice this visualization consistently. This exercise doesn’t just inspire you—it creates a mental roadmap, helping you align your daily actions with your long-term goals.
These practices resonate with the lessons of near-death experiences, where individuals often return with a renewed sense of purpose. By confronting your mortality now, you can live a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Cleaning the Dirt Off Your Light
We’ve discussed the “clear light” of pure consciousness, a state of being unburdened by fear, regret, or attachment. To prepare for death, we must work to clean the “dirt” off our light - the unresolved emotions, unprocessed mistakes, and unacknowledged fears that obscure our inner clarity.
Face Your Fears: The fear of death often stems from the fear of the unknown. By confronting this fear head-on - through meditation, reflection, or philosophical exploration - you can begin to see death not as an ending, but as a transformation.
Learn from Mistakes: Every mistake carries a lesson. By reflecting on your actions and using them as opportunities for growth, you can ensure that your karmic score is moving in the right direction.
Let Go of Attachments: Whether it’s material possessions, societal status, or even your own self-image, attachments can weigh you down. Practicing detachment doesn’t mean rejecting life—it means embracing it without clinging to illusions or ego.
The Ultimate Question
As you prepare for death, ask yourself this: “When I’m laying on my deathbed, will I be proud of the life I lived?” Reflecting on this question regularly can help guide your choices and priorities, ensuring that your answer will be a resounding “yes.”
Conclusion: Death as the Great Unifier and Ultimate Teacher
Death is not merely the end of our physical existence - it is a profound mirror reflecting the essence of life itself. It strips away the trivial and mundane, leaving us with the undeniable truth that life is finite, precious, and interconnected. As we have explored throughout this whitepaper, reframing death as a natural and even beautiful part of existence can profoundly reshape how we live.
From the cultural perspectives that honor death as a transformation, to the Tibetan Book of the Dead’s teachings on Bardos and the clear light of consciousness, to the uncanny similarities in near-death experiences, one theme is clear: death is not the end. It is a continuation, a transition, and an opportunity for growth. Whether we view it as a gateway to liberation, a return to collective consciousness, or simply a final reflection on a life well-lived, death calls us to ask: how will we spend the time we have?
Life’s Fragility and Interconnectedness
Throughout this exploration, we’ve seen how cultures like those of Tibet, Mexico, and Indigenous Australians view death as a continuation rather than a cessation. They remind us that the Western fear of death is not universal, and perhaps not even necessary. Instead of resisting or denying death, we might embrace it as a teacher, revealing the fragility and interconnectedness of life.
The same Bardos we encounter in death are present in our daily lives, challenging us to let go of fear and attachment. Each decision, each moment of change, is a chance to confront our small “deaths” and prepare for the ultimate transition. Recognizing these moments as opportunities allows us to navigate life with greater courage and grace, knowing that the lessons we learn now will guide us when the time comes.
Death as a Return to the Clear Light
The concept of the clear light offers a powerful metaphor for both life and death. In death, this light represents the essence of our being, the pure consciousness that is unburdened by fear or attachment. In life, we can glimpse this light in moments of profound presence when we quiet our thoughts and connect with the stillness beneath them.
Near-death experiences provide modern parallels to this ancient wisdom, as countless individuals describe encounters with a radiant light, a sense of unity, and a life review that emphasizes love and connection. These accounts, strikingly similar across cultures and belief systems, suggest that death is not something to fear, but something to prepare for with mindfulness and intention.
Preparing for Death by Living Fully
One of the greatest takeaways from this exploration is the importance of living with intention. Death challenges us to confront our priorities and make choices that align with our highest values. Our actions ripple through time, shaping our future experiences and the legacy we leave behind. Cultivating gratitude, embracing change, and resolving our regrets will allow us to “clean the dirt off our light” and approach death with clarity and peace.
Gratitude, in particular, is a transformative practice that ties together the lessons of life and death. It reminds us to appreciate the miracle of existence, to savor the moments we share with others, and to find meaning in the smallest details. If we can cultivate this mindset now, we will not only live more fulfilling lives but also face death with a sense of completion.
Death as the Ultimate Perspective
Death offers a rare and powerful perspective, one that few of us choose to embrace until it feels imminent. But what if we lived our lives with this perspective in mind? What if, instead of avoiding thoughts of death, we used them as a lens to focus on what truly matters?
Consider the insights of those who have had near-death experiences: the overwhelming importance of love and connection, the sense of unity with something greater, and the realization that material concerns are fleeting. These lessons challenge us to reevaluate our own lives and ask: Are we living in alignment with our deepest values? Are we cultivating relationships, experiences, and growth that we will look back on with pride?
The Mystery We Share
In the end, death is a mystery—one that unites us all. Whether we view it as a doorway to another realm, a return to collective consciousness, or simply the closing chapter of this life, it is a profound and universal experience. And in this way, it reminds us that we are not alone. Billions of beings before us have faced this journey, and billions more will follow.
This shared destiny invites us to approach life with humility and wonder. If death is the great unknown, then life is the great opportunity - a chance to explore, to connect, and to create. Whether you believe in reincarnation, liberation, or the finality of nothingness, one thing is clear: the time we have here is finite. And that, in itself, is a miracle.
A Call to Live Fully
As we close, let’s return to the ultimate question: When you are lying on your deathbed, will you be proud of the life you lived? This question, though simple, has the power to shape every moment of your existence. It reminds us to make choices that align with our values, to embrace the Bardos of life with courage, and to cultivate gratitude for the gift of being here, now.
Death is not the opposite of life - it is its counterpart, its reflection, its teacher. By preparing for death, we prepare to live fully. And by living fully, we prepare to face death with open hearts and clear minds.
May we all approach this journey with wonder, love, and the knowledge that we are part of something far greater than ourselves.
References and Resources for Further Exploration
To deepen your understanding of death and its multifaceted dimensions, consider the following resources. Each offers unique insights that complement the themes discussed in this whitepaper.
The Lost Art of Dying: Reviving Forgotten Wisdom by L.S. Dugdale
Dr. Lydia Dugdale, a Columbia University physician specializing in medical ethics and geriatric care, explores how modern society has distanced itself from the concept of dying well. Drawing inspiration from the medieval text Ars Moriendi (The Art of Dying), she provides a contemporary framework for approaching death with dignity and intentionality. This book encourages readers to confront mortality directly, fostering a life that prepares for a meaningful end.
AmazonMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl chronicles his experiences in Nazi concentration camps and introduces logotherapy—a therapeutic approach centered on finding purpose. Frankl argues that even in the most harrowing circumstances, discovering meaning is crucial for survival. His insights into suffering, purpose, and the human spirit offer profound reflections on life and death.
AmazonSiddhartha by Hermann Hesse
This novel follows Siddhartha, a young man on a quest for enlightenment during the time of the Buddha. Through his journey, Siddhartha explores various life paths, ultimately realizing that true understanding transcends intellectual knowledge. The narrative delves into themes of self-discovery, the cyclical nature of life, and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.
AmazonThe Tibetan Book of the Dead (Bardo Thodol)
A cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhism, this text serves as a guide for the deceased during the intermediate state (Bardo) between death and rebirth. It offers detailed descriptions of the dying process, the experiences of consciousness after death, and instructions to achieve liberation. The work provides profound insights into the nature of mind and the journey beyond physical existence.
AmazonDeath's Character in Neil Gaiman's The Sandman Series
In Neil Gaiman's acclaimed graphic novel series, Death is personified as a compassionate and approachable figure, contrasting with traditional grim depictions. Her portrayal challenges conventional views, presenting death as a natural and even comforting aspect of existence. This interpretation encourages readers to rethink their perceptions of mortality.The Other Side NDE - YouTube Channel
This channel compiles firsthand accounts of near-death experiences (NDEs) from individuals worldwide. Through interviews and personal narratives, it explores themes of life after death, spiritual insights, and transformative experiences. The channel serves as a platform for understanding NDEs and their profound impact on individuals' lives.
YouTubeJapanese Death Poems
The “death poem,” or jisei, is a centuries-old tradition in Japanese culture to capture the essence of life’s meaning during one’s final breaths. This book collects hundreds of such poems written by Zen Monks, Samurai warriors and Haiku poets on the verge of death (along with circumstantial context and other commentary), offering a glimpse into their experiences and perspectives. their profound impact on individuals' lives.
Amazon
What’s a GAN (generative adversarial network), and how can A.I. be used for art?
Learn how generative adversarial networks (GANs) can be used for art and storytelling, and browse Ha.i.kus - a new form of poetry written by a human and illustrated by artificial intelligence.
GAN-generated imagery from Ha.i.kus, Vol. 1: Cycle of Water
“The story of evolution unfolds with increasing levels of abstraction.”
Ray Kurzweil
For machine learning, and especially GANs, it’s only just the beginning…
There are endless applications for machine learning, a RAPIDLY evolving space expected to surpass $20 billion by 2025 (for context, as of this writing it’s at about $1.5 billion). Artificial intelligence is already embedded in much of our daily lives, from search engines to virtual assistants to virtual reality. There is infinite potential for how A.I. technology can enhance the human experience, and that’s especially true when it comes to art.
Since A.I. is such a vague topic, and one in its infancy of development, let’s focus in on one very unique, tiny corner of A.I. - a machine learning model known as a generative adversarial network, or GAN for short. A GAN is a framework designed to create new samples of data in an evolving learning environment.
GAN-generated image for "Musical Storm” - a Ha.i.ku by ThoughtPose
How does a GAN work?
Image Source: Machine Learning Mastery
Without getting too far in the weeds, a GAN consists of a sample data set with input parameters, and then two networks (outlined below) designed to train one another back-and-forth in a friendly competition of sorts.
Network #1 - the generative model
Generates new instances of data based on the original data set and prompt given. Its goal is to get better and better at generating these instances, and tricking the discriminator model into “thinking” the new instances are from the original data set.
Network #2 - the discriminative model
Evaluates the accuracy of what was generated against the data set and classifies each instance as either real (from original data set) or fake (rendered by the generator). Its goal is to increase the level of accuracy at which it can tell the difference.
Together, they repeat this process, constantly informing each other as the generator produces better instances of data while the discriminator improves itself at flagging the synthetic samples.
That’s a very basic explanation, but the main point is that these types of models can be designed to learn on their own, and can be tweaked in countless ways in terms of what the starting data set consists of, what's generated and how, as well as how the discriminator is used to score the outputs. While use cases are still in the process of being developed, there’s potential for GANs to assist us across virtually all industries including science, business, economics and, of course, art.
Examples (in the form of Ha.i.kus)
The art community is just getting started with using A.I. to create, and that’s certainly true here at ThoughtPose. For starters, head on over to the Ha.i.kus page, which features poetry written by a human and illustrated by a customized text-to-image GAN.
Try it for yourself
Some tools and resources for experimenting with A.I. creative tools on your own:
NightCafe Studio - This tool allows you to generate images from text, or restyle existing images. You can try for free, and then you will need to buy/earn credits to use the tool further. The number of credits needed per creation varies depending on the settings and criteria you set.
Hotpot.ai - Similar as above in terms of using credits, but with different options and a variety of other A.I. tools beyond text-to-image, such as the ability to write fiction stories, restore old pictures, remove backgrounds from images or designs, translate videos and more. It’s pretty nuts, and an absolute blast to mess around with. They also happen to have excellent and responsive customer service.
A.I. Whisperer - YouTuber and Udemy instructor with easy-to-follow demonstration videos on how to create A.I. art (and even sell them as NFTs). Through his videos, he also shares a few custom GANs (different from how the above tools are programmed) that you can try through Google Colab.
Depression is a beautiful, wondrous snowstorm
Thoughts and poetry on depression - what would happen if you were to embrace and appreciate it, rather than try to eliminate it from your cognitive process ❄️
Feeling down?
Anyone capable of reading this has dealt with depression in some way. If you’re looking for formal statistics, it’s estimated that 300 million worldwide experience depression. Informally, it’s probably safe to assume that 100% of adults have had at least one difficult period in life they’ve been forced to endure.
It can be triggered in a number of ways, come in varying degrees of intensity and last for days, weeks, even years at a time. That is to say, each “episode” of depression may hit different.
How should you “deal” with depression?
Of course, there are multiple ways to manage depression and each individual may have their own process for doing so. Some may utilize prescribed medicine, mental and/or physical exercise, creative outlets, hobbies, therapy, support from loved ones or a combination of the above. Yet only 20% of depressives treat symptoms consistently, and 35% don’t bother treating them at all.
Why don’t they? A more interesting question: Should they?
This is not to argue that depression should be left untreated, or left to the individual to treat themselves. But for those who choose to hunker down and endure their depressive episodes, there may be great value in this exercise. Let’s metaphorically explore this idea for a moment.
Depression is a snowstorm
Maybe depression is in your nature as a cognitive being, just as a snowstorm is part of the Earth’s nature.
Sure, on paper it sounds nice to have each day be sunny, windless and warm. But it’s impossible for nature to provide such consistent weather, as there are so many elements at work. And so the Earth rotates and revolves farther from the Sun each year, and its ecosystem builds pressure over the course of its external travels and as interior stimulations are inflicted - that pressure must inevitably be released.
What can you do to prevent a snowstorm from coming?
Nothing.
What can you do to prepare for the storm, when the signs point to one coming?
Plenty (see above).
What can you do during the storm, to endure and appreciate its natural course, and embrace it as a positive component of your cognitive process?
Be observant, appreciate the course of its nature, reflect on the beauty of snowfall and how it comes to be, and…
Let it pass
So next time you feel a storm coming, prepare to experience it in a new way. May the words here (including the more poetic ones below) help you gain new perspective on the nature of depression - you may be surprised at how wonderful and insightful it can be.
Snowstorm
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It feels like a storm’s coming
The wind picks up, starts carrying
HEAVIER things
The sky… it’s cowering like an
Empty canvas left untouched for
Toooo Longggg… but still, ready
While the clouds - they move slow,
Methodical to grow in size,
Gather in numbers
And gain in strength
They procure pressure only to
Release it all.
Maybe you’ve been looking down,
Missing its many signs
It’s so cold, maybe you’re sheltered inside
And won’t even bother going out
Until it passes
Or do you anticipate this,
To embrace the storm
Knowing you can’t control the weather -
Is it in your nature?
Because if you could -
Sit on a hill huddled with
Things to keep you warm
Watch the snowflakes fall,
Listen to their gentle patters
As they accumulate just like
They did as clouds
Let the storm’s air touch your skin, and
Breathe new life into you
Experience the storm for what it is -
Oh, you would be so alright
At peace in your own elements
In awe of these every day wonders
"Alliteration's Allegory" - A Poem in Hindsight of a Great and Terrible Year
“How could they see anything but the shadows if they were never allowed to move their heads?”
― Plato, The Allegory of the Cave
“It is the task of the enlightened not only to ascend to learning and to see the good but to be willing to descend again to those prisoners and to share their troubles and their honors, whether they are worth having or not. And this they must do, even with the prospect of death.”
― Plato, The Allegory of the Cave
Angel’s advocate -
Amidst best bets, crediting
Cool, calm, collected debts
Devil’s deal -
Digging dirty ditches
Entering exodus... emptiness
Embellishment-etched,
Embezzlement-esque
Fine fonts flaunting fairness,
Fronting for fostered,
Forceful face-fuck fests
Façade freedom gatherings
God’s gift -
Growing generational governance,
Garnering half-hating, half-hailing
Impressionistic Incessancy
In in-cre-ments,
Insisting it invites
Independence, isn’t its
Inside joblessness
Jesus’ jobe -
Jabbing, “just-joshing” jokes
Kinda kidding, kinda killing laughter
Listening less, lapsing life’s lessons
Letting love lose,
Leveraging loathsome laments
Mocking moments,
Missing memories
Making more
Mortal’s mission -
Noble’s Nemeses
Necromancing "new normals",
Neglecting old obligations, often
Offering opportunistic options -
Positions, power, protection, pardons... politics.
Prophecy's pressure -
Pro quids, questioning quos
Queued quests quoting qi - quitting quips
Queen's quarrel -
Remedies? Rest, reality, reflection, reset, retur...
Recess! Silly. Same swan song, shaking/still
Searching such selfish souls
Slaves shoveling shit superiors stole
Saint’s secret -
Some say, "So?", sometimes sans "sorry", so...
Time's tenet -
Truth trying to tell tall tales,
This then that,
Tit/tat, tisk tisk table-top taps,
"Touch This" traps, touchless
Tongue-tipped, though usually
Uttering undone “ummms” under voiceless
Vader-y ventilations, vibing via vindicated violence
Virgin's view -
Washed, wavelengths wishing without
Wondering, “Why?” Well, why would we?
Whatever.
Warrior’s womb -
Xenic xebecs xeriscaping
Xenophobic xenodiagnoses
Yielding, yet yearning, your yesterdays - yikes!
Yelling (yelping) your yesses - yawn
Zealous zen zones/zombie zoos - Zzz...
Zigzag zeitgesits zeroing zodiacs (zillions) - zing!
Zion’s zenith -
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A Thoughtful Discussion on the Best Movies of the Decade
Three film-lovers (and knowledgeable ones at that) discuss their favorite movies of the decade.
Hey all - Hope you’re enjoying the Holidays!
With 2020 right around the corner, I thought I’d share a pretty solid read regarding some of the best movies of the soon-ending decade.
I’m so thankful for the friendship I’ve developed with these two Austinites, Adam and Sam (who “co-wrote” the below discussion with me). Not only do they appreciate cinema like I do, but they also happen to be very thoughtful, just genuinely awesome people. And they know a shit-ton about movies.
Anyway, as members of our long-running Movie Committee group, we tasked one another with each coming up with a ranked list of our own top ten films of the 2010s. We then shared our respective lists in a group chat, and discussed.
So, if you’re in the mood for a well-rounded, interesting deep-dive into some of the best flicks this decade had to offer, sit back and enjoy the following (well-written) conversation between Sam, Adam and myself. You got two options:
I’ll scroll for you (and provide a soundtrack!):
Discussion written by Samantha Deese, Adam Nevarez and Andrew Chase. Music: “Young” by Ian Ewing Ft. Flamingosis
Or scroll yourself:
Discussion written by Samantha Deese, Adam Nevarez and Andrew Chase
And there you have it. What are some of your favorite movies of the decade?