These eight contemplations are the core of the Interdependence and Death Contemplation Project. They can be organized thematically into three sets or series. I have taught them in this way when there hasn’t been time to teach each one individually.
I invite you to explore each contemplation individually if you have time, and to explore each series as well through the guided practices and on your own.
First Series
2. Contemplating Death by Comparison
3. Contemplation of Death as the Great Separator
The shared theme here is the awareness that we (and those we contemplate) are subject to impermanence and death — that death is universal and inescapable in nature. The awareness of this subverts the idea that somehow we (and those we love) are somehow free, immune, or not subject to death.
These contemplations primarily deal with the personal reality of death. Regarding climate change, these contemplations are helpful for people who have justifications regarding their lifestyle or desires that keep them from acknowledging the reality of climate change (or their own mortality.)
You can click on any of the contemplations to learn more.
Second Series
4. Contemplation of Life as Fragile
5. Contemplation of Life as Shared by Many
The theme here is the nature of life as conditional and interdependent — that to be alive is to depend on other people and things (our parents, food, clothes, shelter) and to avoid situations or things that cause death, such as accidents or situations without the proper necessities. The awareness that this is all necessary to continue to exist subverts the idea of an independent ever-lasting self.
Regarding climate change, these contemplations help people grasp the bigger picture of the world as interdependent and beholden to actions of each part.
You can click on any of the contemplations to learn more.
Third Series
The theme here is the non-intellectual and experiential understanding of death and impermanence, beyond our mental fabrications and concepts. This exploration takes us beyond the idea that we can find something satisfactory by thinking or planning and brings us intuitively to proper meditation.
Regarding climate change, this series is particularly helpful for activists and others dealing with their own minds as they grapple with the reality of a flawed world.
You can click on any of the contemplations to learn more.
Beyond the Eight Contemplations