What Constitutes a Decent Life and Death?
I stared too long in the eyes of the night and my mind bled then my heart. Now, nothing breathing with a dead or decaying heart has the authority to tell me how south I can go for the day.
Introduction
The question of what makes for a decent death is intimately tied to what constitutes a decent life. This philosophical inquiry, central to many spiritual and ethical traditions, invites us to reflect on our actions, sacrifices, and the moral compass guiding our lives. Drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, a timeless spiritual text, we explore these themes through key concepts such as the abuse of authority, loss-loss situations, contradictions and dilemmas, fear of wrong answers, and the fear of sins.
1. Abuse of Authority
a. Ethical Leadership
Abusing authority can lead to the erosion of trust and moral decay within society. True leadership is grounded in humility and service.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"Whatever action a great man performs, common men follow. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues." (Bhagavad Gita 3.21)
b. Impact on Society
Misuse of power can result in widespread suffering and injustice.
Ethical governance fosters societal well-being and harmony.
2. Loss-Loss Situation
a. The Nature of Sacrifice
Life often presents situations where sacrifices are inevitable, and choices are made based on the greater good.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"Perform your duty equipoised, O Arjuna, abandoning all attachment to success or failure. Such equanimity is called yoga."(Bhagavad Gita 2.48)
b. Evaluating Consequences
Understanding the implications of each choice helps in navigating loss-loss scenarios.
Prioritizing collective welfare over personal gain.
3. Contradictions and Dilemmas
a. Navigating Moral Complexity
Life is full of contradictions and dilemmas that challenge our ethical frameworks and decision-making processes.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"When your intelligence has passed out of the dense forest of delusion, you shall become indifferent to all that has been heard and all that is to be heard." (Bhagavad Gita 2.52)
b. Seeking Clarity
Reflecting on core values to resolve dilemmas.
Balancing conflicting duties and responsibilities.
4. Fear of Wrong Answers
a. Overcoming Paralysis by Analysis
The fear of making wrong decisions can lead to inaction and stagnation, preventing growth and progress.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions." (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)
b. Embracing Imperfection
Learning from mistakes is a path to wisdom.
Taking decisive action despite uncertainties.
5. Fear of Sins
a. Ethical Conduct
The fear of committing sins can guide individuals towards righteous living, but excessive fear can be paralyzing.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"A person who is not disturbed by the incessant flow of desires – that enter like rivers into the ocean, which is ever being filled but is always still – can alone achieve peace, and not the man who strives to satisfy such desires." (Bhagavad Gita 2.70)
b. Striving for Purity
Leading a life of integrity and compassion.
Balancing fear with understanding and forgiveness.
6. Loss of Heart Due to Fear and Anxiety
a. Maintaining Inner Peace
Excessive fear and anxiety can lead to a loss of heart, diminishing one’s ability to live a fulfilling life.
Bhagavad Gita Reference:
"Therefore, Arjuna, you should always think of Me in the form of Krishna and at the same time carry out your prescribed duty of fighting. With your activities dedicated to Me and your mind and intelligence fixed on Me, you will attain Me without doubt."(Bhagavad Gita 8.7)
b. Cultivating Resilience
Developing mental strength and emotional stability.
Seeking solace in spirituality and self-awareness.