book on "preparing for death and helping the dying - a buddhist perspective "

This week I picked up the above book (by Ven Sangye Khadro) free of charge from one of the buddhist books/CDs/materials distributing point at the corridor infront of a hair salon in Yishun Avenue 5.

2. It is really interesting and beneficial. It deals with:-

a. Buddhist Perspective on Death,
b. How to Prepare for Death,
c. Helping Others who are Dying. Two important parts are:-
1) How to help someone who is a Buddhist and
2) How to help someone who is NOT a Buddhist.

3. The material from this book is from two sources: Buddhist teachings and contemporary writings in the field of caring for the dying. A list of recommended books is provided at the end of the book.

4. It is an eye-opener for everyone as everyone will one day pass away. It will also guide people on how to help those who are dying. Very often, people do not know what to do or say when coming across someone who is dying.

5. Instead of being in discomfort thinking death will be terrible, painful and depressing experience, think about:-

a. "Dying can be a time of learning and growth;
b. a time of deepening our love,
c. our awareness of what is important in life, and
d. our faith and commitment to spiritual beliefs and practices."

6. The book said" Death is a reality, a fact of life, so wouldn't it be better to approach it with openness and acceptance, rather than fear and denial."

7. In short, it about how our mind should think, how to remain calm and how to die gracefully. In the course of reading the book and thinking about it, it also encourages us and guide us how to live ethically so that when someone dies or when it is our turn to die, we will not have any regrets and how the mind will always remain positive and calm.

8. There is list of hospice care service in Singapore with addresses, tel and email addresses at the rear of book.

9.More information about Buddhism and anyone wishing to volunteer their services can visit these websites:

Information On Buddhism

To Volunteer Your Services

Register For Relaxation & Vipasanna Meditation