Regarding Death
abracad, · Categories: externally authored, survivalby Lynne Brassington
You know how sometimes, a random past moment glides in? In the midst of cleaning out my wardrobe, memory of my mother’s eyes crinkled with laughter suddenly came into focus. She had been telling me a story. Long ago as a kid, she’d been out walking. Ahead of her, cool and fuzzy blue-grey shifted into brilliant and sharp white. Made her blink. Tracing the dazzle to its source - a rooftop – she was convinced it had to be made of gold. Short-socked feet running, she got close and stared. Then frowned. The amazing glow was no longer there. And immediately she realised and felt sheepish. There’d been no gold; it was just tin flirting in the sun! Naive maybe, but she was only very young when this happened. As I remember our sitting together that time, deepest human sorrow tries to invade again, because my mother died not so long ago. But then her girlhood meeting with illusion helps return a quiet smile. For it also reminds me that ‘looking again’ may go on to reveal the greatest illusion of all – within death itself.
Fear of dying - three little words - yet potent. Better to immerse in life’s daily grind than dwell too much on the subject? But since ancient times, reflection on whether life truly ends completely has managed a firm presence. Like peering into a kaleidoscope, some of these now present to my inner vision.
Death pondering by the Classical Athenian philosopher Socrates is interesting. I understand his own writings don’t exist but that Plato - also a philosopher - provided his version of Socrates. His Phaedo reckons any sincere philosopher rejoices at death, regarding it as simply soul being liberated from the body. I can imagine him almost jumping up and down at the prospect, shouting “Hooray!â€Â The ancient Greek Master Pythagoras - mathematician, mystic and philosopher, provided a principle of immortal soul and its potential beyond the physical. And so on since ancient times, musings on mortality have continued. Many religions and spiritual paths embrace that life continues after death of the body. Beyond human – that I, you, we – are individual and divine soul. This strikes intangible vibes for me and evokes feelings of recognition and knowing, yet beyond my human grasp to enunciate.
I see as thought provoking too, information about early Christian martyrs. At question includes the termite like effect these individuals had on the mighty Roman Empire. They had faith in going to – and being resurrected in - heaven. Execution did not quell them as they held to something bigger and more important than earthly life alone.
In some paths is also belief that when the body perishes, there is in effect a translation from one life to another. This links to talk about reincarnation and of each life providing more opportunity to unfold. And thus to happiness for those who have left this world, because they progress to further experiences, according to a divine purpose.
I have tilted attention on only a few contemplations here and am not trying to change anyone’s mind. For sure, viewpoints will differ and it is so important to have one’s own space to reflect and choose what is right for you. And for many, seeking a proof that satisfies the physical senses, rears up in conversation about life after death and scuppers the assertion for some.
The relation of science to proof is intriguing. Science helps to understand our world. Some scientific observation seeks evidence of spiritual elements of life beyond the physical. Some call such studies pseudo scientific.  Or you may have heard individuals who say they have had out of body awareness, sometimes connected with a near-death experience. I remember one young woman telling me of a man she knew having this experience, leaving him in no doubt of what had occurred. One criticism in response to these kinds of accounts is that there is a lack of accepted parameters of evidence. Even amongst scientists though, attitudes can differ. Some scientists posit there is only the reality of the physical world and body. On the other hand are scientists who talk about things beyond science and human capacity. I further gather that some scientists align with dualism - that we possess a physical body and a non-physical component – spirit or soul.
There has been discussion about whether science can successfully explore all aspects of being. But I really don’t know if anyone can say one way or the other, what science may go on to reveal. This is especially so in light of discoveries in quantum physics, which say parallel universes, actually may exist. The science says that such parallel universes are amazingly close to us but that we cannot perceive them with our physical senses.
I have heard too of routes to discover for oneself that include via shift in consciousness, helping increase awareness and awakening as soul. To change gears so to speak, from the physical senses to spiritual consciousness. And thus potentially to experience and know spiritual universes beyond, via the spirit or soul body. Very subtly perhaps, yet an authentic spiritual experience. The beauty of doing so including the understanding that okay, the body may die, but never soul or spirit. An important element includes spiritual guides. Other terms can get used, like guardian angels, spiritual travellers or masters. For example theosophy has information of mature adepts who convey some of what they know, having mastered awareness in spirit, of other spheres. A true inner spiritual guide is essential towards helping avoid pitfalls and to safeguard one wishing experience of worlds beyond.
How far can one go in discriminating between illusion and truth? It may be a unique journey and answer for each individual. Whatever one’s awareness now, the potential to unfold can patiently continue. Inner perception and spiritual guidance, along with connection with one’s true divine self could all contribute. “I Believe†might thus blossom into “I Know.â€
Lynne Brassington enjoys painting. Inner nudges have lead her also to writing, to share reflections which others on their own journey may find useful. Lynne uses art and writing as a channel for the flow of Spirit. She appreciates all life and some inquisitive little parrots share her home in Australia. She seeks answers to questions and unfolding in Soul, via the Ancient Teachings of the Masters.
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