Appreciating the Deceased

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We believe that respect for our ancestors and loved ones is respect for ourselves. Who can fully imagine the struggles and pains, failures and triumphs of our ancestors? We would not be here today, if it were not for their lives and their perseverance.

Understanding this can give us strength to face struggles, setbacks and pains in our own lives. Our ancestors did it with primitive tools and without modern  communications or conveniences. This thought is both humbling and empowering.

In this way, our ancestors give us strength in our daily lives.

I personally find that when I face a new challenge or a decision, especially if the decision has a moral or ethical aspect or component, I will think of my deceased mother. I will ask myself, what would she want me to do? What would she have done? Would she be happy that I made a particular choice?

The response I receive is from within my own mind but exploring my choices from that perspective, helps to guides me.

We know from archaeology that long ago, and into the remote past, our ancestors showed respect and esteem for their deceased ancestors. These are natural human feelings.

One perspective is that how we feel about ourselves is reflected in our feelings for others, both the dead and the living.

A closely related perspective is presented by modern Chinese culture. Many successful and prominent business families of Chinese ancestry in the US, credit the spirits of their parents and grandparents for much of their success. They will go to significant expense to make sure that these ancestors and their graves and monuments are treated with respect and esteem.

In a philosophical sense, our ancestors do continue on through us. We hold the perspective that whatever choices we make should be made with thoughts of respect, integrity and hopefully, love.

One does not need to spend any money in order to have integrity or give respect, and of course love is always free. Loving and taking care of yourself and those around you is the greatest gift you can give to your ancestors. In reality, it is a gift to yourself.

The choices we make in life can have an impact on other humans, the larger world, and the environment.

With our continuing journey, we are choosing to honor both our loved ones and the earth.

We invite you to remember your ancestors when you see a sailing ship.