Rebecca,

Death comes to everyone and everything. It is a law; for everything is impermanent. However, this does not mean that we should fear it. In fact, you should use it. Fear of death is one of the many things which allows us to cherish life and give meanings to our deeds. And sometimes, death should be welcomed. For example, imagine you were immortal (ageless, like an elf). This would mean you would outlive your children, and their children, your friends, your idols, people you meet, etc… Sure, you would make new bonds as you meet more people along the way, however, the cycle of outliving and losing these new friends would continue, and continue, and continue. In such a case, it would be too sad to keep on living living. Then, the idea death may begin to sound appealing, wouldn’t you think?

Another explanation is that death is simply a part of life. The African philosophy of it being part of the Circle of Life is correct. For something to live (and sustain living), something must die. This truth cannot be escaped. However, to put it into a more gentler (and more beautiful) sense, simply regard it as continuous transfer of energy from one organism to another. Once we die, our decaying bodies in the ground will feed other organisms whom will in turn feed others in an endless cycle. In this sense, you could say we indeed truly do become immortal.

For the moment, while it is perfectly fine to question many things, do also try your best to see the beauty around you. Take the time and visualize what it takes for a flower to blossom, appreciate how it feels to walk bare footed on lush grass, delight in feeling the rain, be gracious in having ease of transportation, enjoy the presence of your parents, relish in the company of your friends, etc… When you do, your feelings of what is real and what is not (“figment of my imagination”) will dissipate, leaving only what is pure and true to you. I hope this helps.

May your heart find peace.

Al