That line begins a reading that I include in nearly every funeral or unveiling that I perform. Though it later goes on to speak beautifully about cherishing our loved ones while they're alive and honoring the memories of those who have died, to me, the importance of this poem is in the very first line. Death is indeed a reality that many of us have trouble facing. We joke about death, we trivialize it, we ignore it, or we keep ourselves busy to simply avoid it; but ultimately, we don't like acknowledging the inevitable reality of death. Why?Perhaps it represents chaos, standing as the definition of what we cannot explain or fully understand. It also may symbolize finality, after which we cannot resolve disputes or disagreements, say "I'm sorry" or "I love you."
For many, it is even the embodiment of sadness and fear. So why would anyone want to talk about it?? Because it is a reality, and it is an important part of life. We appreciate living when we acknowledge dying; we treasure family, friendship, and love because they do not last forever. Even in other areas of life, the same is true, though we may not always recognize it. Food and drink taste better when there's a final bite waiting and we can see a bottom to the glass.
This week's parasha is called Acharei Mot, and it begins by telling us about what happened to Aaron and Moses after the deaths of Aaron's two sons, Nadav and Avihu. But the two most important words of the entire portion are the ones that give it its name: Acharei Mot - After the death. These words remind us that there IS something that happens after someone dies, even (and especially) when the death was a horrific tragedy. Yes, death represents a finality for those who died, but the living must go on! Death cannot become crippling; locking us into a spiral of grief and lament. Aaron was surely devastated after his sons died, but this week we learn that he moved on. Life continued.But Aaron's sons did not die in last week's portion. It happened three weeks ago, and two other portions came in between, reminding us that moving on with life does not happen instantaneously. It takes time. There is a
beautiful story about King Solomon, which I will happily share with you if you're interested, that teaches us the invaluable phrase, "This too shall pass." When we feel overcome by catastrophe, we must remember that things will, eventually, improve. Aaron needed time to grieve and mourn, but he also needed to begin to live again, and honor the memory of his two sons by moving on with his own life.
"This too shall pass" also applies to the good times in life. They won't last forever, so savor and appreciate joy as long as you can. Holding on to the wonderful memories and moments we have experienced gives us strength to face whatever lies ahead. Ultimately, life is a roller coaster with highs and lows. If we face it honestly, acknowledging that life will contain both joy and sadness, opportunities and challenges, then we will truly get the most out of every moment, and live life to its fullest.
5. CC image courtesy of aprilzosia on Flickr
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