Preparing for Death as a Path of Awakening (canceled)
The truth of death is uncompromising and the great mystery of what happens after death is something that we will all encounter directly. What is the relationship of death to conciousness? Taught in English. Translation upon request.
Sorry, this programme is canceled.
‘How we approach death will depend upon our fear of life, how fully we participated in our lives, and how willing we are to let go of this known realm to venture into a new one. Fear and unfinished business are the two great factors in determining how much resistance we put into meeting death’.
-Philadelphia Shambhala Center Guide for Dying
Preparing for death is a vital part of our “cosmic education” and no one can do it for us. We all will experience the transition of the “great divide”, alone. The truth of death is uncompromising and the great mystery of what happens after death is something that we will all encounter directly.
What is the relationship of death to conciousness? Does it continue after we die? Can we know? How do we prepare for our own death and help our friends and loved ones die in the best circumstances? Most people avoid talking about death out of fear but it is only by becoming familiar with our fears that we can gain understanding and confidence.
It is by understanding our own mind that positive perspectives can open and deeper insight into reality can be revealed. In that way awareness of death can become the most important way, “The Supreme Way”, to truly know ourselves and to appreciate and enhance our life.
‘Remembering that I will be dead soon is the most important tool I’ve ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything – all external expectations, all pride, all fear embarrassment or failure – these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important.’
– Steve Jobs
Programme
This approach to death and dying is based on Buddhist and Shambhala teachings. It is open to, and welcomes, the wisdom of all traditions. The programme consists of talks presenting the main themes, guided meditations, contemplations, compassionate exchanges, group discussions, writing exercises and videos.
Main topics covered will be:
What is death? (introductory talk)
Life and Death, the greatest of all mysteries
The importance of preparing for death
How we leave this world is as important as how we come into it
Enhancing Life!
Appreciating our lives and relationships, now
Love, caring, and presence
Schedule
Day 1
Honesty about the reality of death, working with denial
Our own death and caring for the death of others
Death from different religious and cultural perspectives
Day 2
Finishing farewells
Working with fear
Hospice care
Day 3
The dying process
Dissolution and Letting go
Creating a good atmosphere for the dying person,
Love and transition. Presence and Listening
Day 4
After death
Caring for the body, Funerals and Rituals
Grieving
Day 5
Creating your re-birth, Living it now
Closing circle
Banquet
Practical
Arrival day (Sunday February 24): Orientation talk at 8 pm. You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6.45 pm.
End of programme (Friday March 1): Closing circle and Banquet in the evening.
Departure day (Saturday March 2): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for lunch.
This programme is taught in English. Free translation into French or other languages needs to be confirmed. Important: Translation services are possible only if you register your request at least two months in advance of the programme.
