Sometimes we are so caught up with our daily activities, our work, our family, etc. that we forget that we're mortal.  That sooner or later, death approaches and we will have to answer its call.

A close cousin of mine, who should be the same age as I am, died when he was 28.  My mom passed away when she was 44.  And last night, I visited another cousin who is dying of cancer.  In his mid-forties, he has two small children who are not even in school yet.  And I remember a friend who was barely 20 when he was struck by lightning.   And yet, my grandmother who is 93 and suffering from alzheimers is still strong, healthwise. 

So, youth is not a deterent for death and we must be prepared for its approach - for all of us will have to face death sooner or later.  A saying in Islam goes something like this:

Embrace life/Work/Strive as if you're going to live forever but prepare for death as if you're going to die tomorrow.

I was reflecting on my preparation for death.  As a Muslim, am I prepared to meet my Maker?  Will He be pleased or angry or disappointed with me?  What have I done to please Him?  What have I done to incur His displeasure?  Have I achieved the purpose with which He had sent me to this Earth? Do I even know what that purpose is?  Have I been to preoccupied with this world that I forget that my visit here is brief when compared to the Hereafter?

Death approaches and do I cower from it or do I embrace it?  I saw how gracious my mom was when she embraced death.  She was prepared to return to her Creator and she prepared us all for the seperation.  I hope when my time comes, I can be as gracious and as assured.  She left me with this:

Be humble! 

Humility and the acceptance of our destination - "to Him do all return"

Peace.