I want you to know
that I won’t be judging my life
based on how many people
show up at my funeral.
Neither will I be judging my life
based on how much wealth
I’ve accumulated
or how many times my name
is mentioned in history.
I want you to know
that I won’t be judging my life,
period.
That is for YOU to do,
if you are so inclined.
Instead, I will leave you
with the realization that you
don’t need to judge your life, either.
I prayed all my life
that it wouldn’t take my death
for you to see this, but humans are slow.
I will not be having a funeral
in the strictest sense and neither will you.
Instead we will have a party. Of One.
See you on the other side.
Trail Wood,
11/17
In the boundless journey of our shared existence, we encounter the profound understanding that the value of our lives is not to be measured by external validations or conventional milestones. This realization leads us to a liberating perspective on life and death, where judgment gives way to acceptance and celebration.
Releasing the Need for External Validation
The decision not to judge one’s life based on attendance at a funeral, wealth accumulated, or historical recognition is a powerful statement about self-worth and the futility of external validation. It reflects a deep understanding that the true value of our lives cannot be quantified by societal metrics or others’ perceptions.
Judgment as an External Endeavor
The notion of leaving the judgment of one’s life to others, if they are so inclined, underscores the subjectivity of judgment and its detachment from the essence of our being. It’s a recognition that while others may form opinions, these do not define the true nature of our lives or our worth.
A Message of Liberation from Self-Judgment
The message conveyed is not just about refraining from judging oneself but also extends to others, suggesting that we too need not judge our lives. This is a profound invitation to embrace life with acceptance and to free ourselves from the often harsh and limiting lens of self-judgment.
Embracing Life and Death with Celebration
The idea of forgoing a traditional funeral in favor of a party symbolizes a transformative approach to life and death. It suggests celebrating each life as a unique journey, complete in itself, rather than mourning its conclusion. This perspective fosters a sense of joy and gratitude for the experiences and connections we forge.
The Party of One and the Continuation Beyond
The concept of a ‘Party of One’ at life’s end, and the notion of seeing each other on the other side, offers a whimsical yet poignant view of death. It hints at a continuity of consciousness beyond the physical realm, where the individual journey merges into a greater, interconnected existence.
Summary
We contemplate the liberating idea of not judging our lives based on conventional measures or external opinions. This perspective encourages us to live authentically, free from the constraints of societal expectations and self-judgment. The concept of celebrating life and death as a ‘Party of One’ embraces the notion of an ongoing journey beyond physical existence, inviting us to view life and death not as endings, but as part of a continuous cosmic dance.
Feel free to share further thoughts or reflections on this perspective of life, judgment, and the celebration of existence beyond conventional norms.
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