death & impermanence

Title: Ｄeath & Impermanence
Size: 5 x 7 inches
Medium: Acrylic on Museum Wrapped Canvas
Artist: betsisandeers 2010

"Death is certain and it cannot be prevented. Our lives cannot increase, but keep on decreasing. As we get older, we are one step closer to death. Death will definitely come, even if you practice the dharma."

These were the first statements of Kadampa Budhist Nun Gen Keiang Yangdak at the Buddhist seminar last weekend (Oct 1-3). That was too much to handle, first thing in the morning, on a rainy Saturday, when I usually am in deep slumber.

Simply Meditate ... is a series of meditation classes and Buddhist teachings given by Kadampa Buddhist Nun Gen Kelsang Yangdak, Resident Teacher at Compassion Buddhist Meditation Society in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Classes were held at The ISIP Centre, Rockwell, Makati City.

>>>>>>>>
I always write about death, talk about death, think about death, cry about death, even 'breathe' about death . I'd say I already have a 'master's degree' on death. Death will come and no one escapes death. Death , death, death ....

I remember being asked by my husband, what I'd do if I knew this was my last day? I was quick to answer that I'd be doing whatever it is that I am doing right now. I'd probably be painting, reading, writing, cleaning, cooking, reciting my morning novenas and praying the rosary at night. I would be with the two most important persons in my life.

Our teacher said that at the time of death, we cannot bring our wealth with us. We leave our loved ones behind and that only the practice of dharma can help us.

What is dharma practice? Dharma means one's righteous duty, it can be equivalent simply to religion. Therefore, dharma practice is simply spiritual practice.

“Dharma practice isn't just coming to the temple; it's not simply readharma,ding a Buddhist scripture or chanting the Buddha's name. Practice is how we live our lives, how we live with our family, how we work together with our colleagues, how we relate to the other people in the country and on the planet.” It is loving all sentient beings.

Difficult to do, but not impossible. We can start with loving our selves first, then our immediate families, our friends, our acquaintances. Then, from there, we shall love others, even those difficult to love. If you fail today, try again tomorrow.

Love, love lots, truly love / betsisanders 2010