Beyond Death: Grace and Courage

Author: (American) Wilber, written by, Hu Yiumeng, translated by Liu Qingyan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: The beautiful, lively, and intelligent woman Cui Ya met Ken Wilber at the age of thirty-six and fell in love at first sight, leading to their marriage. However, just before the wedding, Cui Ya discovered she had breast cancer. Thus, a romantic and wonderful bond gave rise to their shared journey in confronting the illness. They endured five years of suffering, but ultimately, the tumor worsened, and the disease was incurable. During these five difficult years, both husband and wife experienced their own pains and fears, as well as their own sacrifices. Mutual injuries, hatred, resentment, and grievances were gradually dissolved through meditation and spiritual practice, elevating themselves to compassion and wisdom. In this process, though the patient's body endured immense torment, her heart remained free, joyful, and full of vitality, even finding the strength to respond with compassion. The story is deeply moving. In this death diary, the narration of the female protagonist and the explanation of the male protagonist are seamlessly intertwined, as if in dialogue and exchange, interpreting each other. This makes their inner experiences become genuine life experiences. This book is highly successful whether as a story about a cancer patient, a guide for patients and caregivers, a touching love story, or an exploration of the profound wisdom of the world's great traditions, the meaning of life, the examination of death and near-death, and the study of spiritual development. Being accepted is a "grace." Accepting this fact is "courage." Fear of death diminishes the vitality of life, while accepting death is for a better life. There is deep significance in grace and courage. Life is worthwhile, and humanity is noble—all within grace and courage.