Either we persist as individuals, with a life history and memories, or we do not. If we do not, then most of the things we care about are transient and futile: in the end, it all comes to nothing. We go to school and learn, marry and raise children, form friendships and build communities, only to have it all end in the grave, our effort come to nought.
If we do persist as individuals, then we do not altogether know what to expect, even supposing religious belief. We do not know how we will fare, or fit in. Even if we are sure we will do well, we remain attached to the things of this life, and find it hard to relinquish them. I don't know about you, but even if I expected to go to glory, I would wonder how the life to come relates to this life, and worry about not being their for my son, or wife, or, when they come, grandchildren. In short, even if the life to come is good, it is a traumatic transition that we face....... |
