Synopses & Reviews
Weaving together material from many sources, this collection provides a context for understanding death—whether our own or a loved one's—and experiencing it with awareness and equanimity. It features passages from the Pali texts, writings of S. N. Goenka, poems, theoretical expositions, a question-and-answer section, and compelling essays by or about meditators confronting the end of life. With humility, tenderness, and often a smile, they learn to accept their own impermanence, suffering, and nonself. Much of this material was collected from the archives of the International Vipassana Newsletter.
Review
"I imagine there is no better way to experience the end of life—apart from meditating or living it oneself—than to read these beautiful stories." —Rivers Cuomo, lead singer, Weezer
Review
"I was inspired by the stories of ordinary people who faced death with exemplary poise and courage, and who attributed this gift to Vipassana meditation." —Paul R. Fleischman, author,Cultivating Inner Peace
About the Author
S. N. Goenka has trained more than 800 assistant teachers who conduct courses in Vipassana centers around the world. He is the author of The Discourse Summaries, The Gracious Flow of Dharma, and Meditation Now. Virginia Hamilton is a former editor of the International Vipassana Newsletter. She lives in Egbert, Ontario.