The Central Fact

From an evolutionary standpoint, the fear of death makes a lot of sense when you think about it. So instead of cursing this gut-wrenching dread that sometimes hits me during that state between sleep and waking around 3 am, I should be thankful for it. Because without it, my ancestors probably wouldn't have lived long enough to pass the fear gene on to me.

Mankind has created religious traditions to soften the blow, but they don't really know what comes after. Memories are stored in the physical brain that is destroyed at the time of death. If there was something before this life I have no way to recall that experience. But if the human soul is infinite, then that means no beginning or end. It doesn't add up in my mind that I didn't exist until the moment of my conception, but my soul will continue on after I die. Then again, what do I know about it?

I'm not really a big fan of the concept of reincarnation. It doesn't appeal to me, the thought of being thrown into a new life every few years or so, for the rest of eternity. Each time, starting from scratch, completely confused and unaware of your previous life with no idea what comes next. Over and over and over..... Perhaps there is such thing as karma, but who cares if you can't remember why you're being rewarded or punished? How are you supposed to reach enlightenment that way?

I much prefer the idea of a final resting place, where all truth is revealed and all fear and confusion is gone. And since it's my choice, this is what I will go ahead and believe in.