Things happen merely because they happen...
There is no why or wherefore...
There is no grand plan.....
We (Human beings type one each) are the same as everything else in the universe.... No more important, no less important.....
The idea that when we die (or those close to us die) that that is it, the end, fini is scary as all hell for most of us. We seek some continuance out there in the cosmos.... But there really isnt any... When it's over, it'as over...end of story...do not pass go, do not collect $200.00.
Religion wants us to believe in some kind of afterlife, some kind of reason for existing... This is merely religion's attempt to control (yes, religion's ultimate purpose is it's original purpose, to cotrol the masses, much as government's purpose is to control the masses)... Religion says to us taht life is brutal, but it is worth it because there is a reward waiting at the end if you persevere...
But the truth is that there is no reward...it just ends....
Realization of this truth can be terrifying.... People can feel, "well, if it all leads to nothing, why continue, might as well end it now.." and some do...(the zen master points out to the pupil that many times a monk will reach satori during the act of suicide...)
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