emotion

I just had a friend call to tell me his wife of 40 years died suddenly and unexpectedly. Wow does that put life in perspective. All the "important" things that we worry and consume ourselves with are suddenly irrelevant. Bawa Muhaiyaddeen certainly could speak to this issue and does.

Our life is filled with Karma--frets, possessions, selfishness, egos, worries--all revolving around the "I" and the world that we see through our senses that control our desires and dictate to our mind.
Suddenly the "I" is gone but life hasn't stopped. Only a few have even noticed. To them it is an important moment, a departure, a separation, an ending to a relationship or an ending to a constant that gave them comfort. But the world hasn't stopped and life is still moving, the river is still flowing...that persons memories and spirit are still flowing down the river...over time a little fainter but flowing nonetheless. The ego, the selfishness of the "I" is gone but nothing else has changed. Memories will become more distant and fainter with no new events to refresh the images which gradually fade quietly down the river.
What a moment...we cling to the memories for the benefit of our own "I" not wanting to let go, not wanting to give up the possession of that feeling, the gratification, the comfort which that possession brings. We cry, morn, become angry, disappointed, and have regrets...all emotions which we need to have to relieve the pain of the loss. Emotions which are very important and, without which, would make life a very bland affair...and what a variety they are.