Dying Well Amidst Collapse (#1)

In 2040 I will be 60. In 2050 I will be 70. I am lucky enough that I am likely to remain relatively healthy throughout my middle age; I like to think that my old age will not start until I am 70. I have read enough now about the -more or less global- Collapse of modern civilization that is highly probable before 2050, and highly possible by 2040. This means that civilization is likely to become decrepit before I do, and I am likely, like the majority of humans alive after 2040, to suffer a tragic death (although I may not). How can I make my death less tragic? How can I die well? Firstly, I can resolve not to die in a state of blind ignorance about what is happening to the world, as unfortunately, many are doomed to do (I urge you to read about Collapse, particularly its thermodynamic and ecological bases). Secondly, I can resolve not to die in a state of blind panic. If I know my death may be tragic, the least I can do to prepare is contemplate the various possibilities of my death, as well as maintain a good meditation practice of letting go: letting go pain; letting go all distractions from the present moment. This is dying well amidst Collapse.

Originally published in the Schemattic digital garden.