[beonecenry]

Thank you both very much for your replies.
Aloka-D> I have taken the academic route for the last ten years or so, but didn't start practicing until this Autumn. I have read a number of books on how to practice and about Buddhist philosophy, but didn't start practicing until this Autumn. I am an artist, and have been fascinated with funerary practices from around the world, since death is one of the basic commonalities of all sentient beings. The mantra I started to use was not instructed, but (this sounds silly) found a track on youtube of chanting monks. I am also a singer, so the vocal resonance was very appealing, so I gave it a try.
Element> thank you. Somewhere I read a short parable about inviting death to dinner so that one will be familiar with it when it comes calling. It is a difficult position, in being present with the idea that all things around me, including myself, my thoughts, my works, will all turn to dust one day. I find myself paying closer attention to my immediate world, my family, and their needs. I sometimes cry for them in knowing that my little girls will one day have to bury me. I don't feel cold about it, but instead, becoming more and more raw. So I say to you, thank you for sharing some wisdom on this matter.
Cheers!
-Red