The Hindu Pencil

Death is an inescapable facet of the human experience, a universal certainty that often lingers in the background of our thoughts. I seldom contemplated the idea of death, as I tended to direct my focus towards the duration of my existence rather than its inevitable end. However, a recent and profoundly impactful event has compelled me to delve deeper into the realm of my emotions and ponder the day when I will depart from this earthly existence.

Understanding Life’s Worth Through the Lens of Death

Many human lives find the source of happiness around 3 important things: wealth, glory, and fame. These elements often hold a significant place in people’s lives, and many pursue one or more of them. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with aspiring to these pursuits, an excessive attachment to them can lead individuals to become captives of their own desires. It is often the unfulfilled aspirations and desires related to these factors that cause the most suffering as people approach death.

It’s not uncommon to witness individuals on their deathbeds reflecting on the time they were unable to allocate to the things that truly mattered to them. These poignant moments serve as a reminder that life’s value isn’t solely determined by material wealth, recognition, or fame, but also by the fulfillment of one’s deepest desires and meaningful connections with others.

A Catalyst for Fulfillment in Life

Death arrives without warning, shrouded in mystery. For those in the later stages of life or confronting serious health issues, the awareness of this impending event becomes a constant companion. This looming awareness can cast a somber shadow over their entire existence, diminishing the significance of their once-cherished hopes and moments.

However, in some instances, this looming specter of death also serves as a catalyst for individuals to finally pursue the things they’ve long wished for. It prompts them to prioritize the sources of happiness they had previously deferred in favor of less meaningful pursuits. The true value of these postponed desires becomes apparent when the looming specter of death begins to whisper in their ears.

While the realization of life’s fleeting nature has always been present, its significance can suddenly take precedence in the face of death’s approaching presence. The sound of death’s whisper can awaken individuals to the urgency of living life to the fullest and pursuing the things that truly matter.

Transforming Fear into Benevolence

Contemplating death often leads people to ponder how their actions might influence their fate in the afterlife. Many faiths include the belief in a post-mortem path where virtuous deeds can lead to a temporary stay in heavenly realms (swarga), while unwholesome actions may result in a temporary stay in lower realms (naraka). This contemplation can create unease, motivating individuals to engage in acts of kindness, such as charitable giving and selfless service to society, with the hope of securing a favorable afterlife.

Despite these actions initially being driven by fear, they set in motion a cycle of positive karma, gradually evolving into a sincere pursuit of righteousness and spiritual growth.

Living with Purpose and Happiness

As I paused for reflection, it struck me that death is beyond my control, so why squander my precious life dwelling on it? Today, I am blessed with life, with each passing second offering the promise of fulfilling the myriad aspirations that cross my mind. My aspirations are boundless, and though I may not achieve them all, I am determined to give them my best effort.

I seek to live each moment to the fullest, striving for a state of perpetual happiness. I understand that, as a human being, unending happiness is an illusion; sadness is an inescapable part of life. Nevertheless, I can always make choices that surround me with people and an environment that fosters happiness.Also, pursuing an achievable idea often comes with numerous obstacles and challenges, but taking one step at a time with unwavering passion generates a profound sense of satisfaction.

Another facet of achieving a contented state is discovering one’s purpose. In my case, that purpose revolves around dedicating my entire life to Sangh work. While the concept itself is simple, its execution knows no bounds. Furthermore, it’s important to recognize that happiness is not a fixed destination but an ongoing journey, and for me, that journey is intricately intertwined with the noble pursuit of Sangh work

The Last Breath of My Life

People might have numerous wishes they long to fulfill before their final breath, I will confront that inevitable moment – my last breath. In that fleeting instance, I yearn for nothing more than to wear a smile, a radiant emblem of profound contentment

The Sangh is my guiding light, and I hope it continues to illuminate my path until my last breath. I am just a tiny drop in the vast ocean that the Sangh has molded. I recognize my existence as a participant in the Sangh’s grand tapestry, and it is this very realization that lends profound meaning to my life.
Being a part of this transformative force and character-shaping process is a privilege, perhaps the result of past good karma. I hold hope, trusting in the divine’s wisdom, that I will have the opportunity to return to this noble pursuit and once again be known as a ‘Swayamsevak’.