When we lose someone close to us, we have an opportunity to reexamine our beliefs, ideas, and constructs around death–and life. Our approach to death says something about our approach to life.
Death gives us an opportunity to look deeply into life, to question what we value, and what we need to let go of to live fully.
There are several questions that come alive at the fire:
Who are you? Do you know who you are?
Why are you here–for what purpose?
Who sent you? Do you know–really know–Who sent you?
Why Am I Here on Earth?

At this point in my life, I’ve lost both parents, aunts and uncles, several cousins, and many dear friends. Each passing gives me pause to consider my own existence–always a sobering self assessment.
In the fall many years ago, I made a fire and stayed out all night after a close friend had passed away. Everything I believed about life and death had been turned upside down and my life felt like it was unraveling. I was experiencing a sense of profound loss and something else–a burning desire.
Beside the fire I stood cold and alone with hot tears in my eyes.
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