A Buddhist view on Life, Loss and Death

Mike Fitter (Bhaktika) will share his experiences drawing on Buddhist teachings following the death of his wife (Gina Clayton) in May 2021. Inviting you to share reflections and discuss the Buddhist view on Life, Loss and Death.
Facilitated by: Mike Fitter (Speaker) and Chrissie Hinde (Quaker Meeting House representative, session chair and co-facilitator)
The session will explore death, loss and life:

1. The death of Gina - numbing intensity and the busy period that follows - Buddhist-Christian funeral and burial services, being active, being supported, gratitude.

2. And what now? - experiencing the loss, recognising the need to be proactive, to learn, to be guided - being ‘broken open’. Getting involved with Compassionate Sheffield.

3. Recognising that not only was I grieving the loss of Gina, but also the part of myself that was unique to that relationship. An important insight.

4. Sharing my learning through Compassionate Sheffield and with my Buddhist sangha. Feeling supported. Emergence of a new direction. Death and loss as a ‘gift’ if it can be embraced. Recognising how this fits with Buddhist teaching.

5. If loss and death can be personally transformative, what would it require for societal transformation?

6. Reflections on death. The inevitability of death enhances life. Learning from religious traditions. Why are we afraid of death? Can we embrace it?

During the session there will be opportunities for reflection and discussion.

Who can attend: This event is open to all adults.

Sheffield Life, Loss and Death Festival
This event is being delivered as part of the Sheffield Life, Loss and Death Festival. There are over 40 more free events taking place across Sheffield during the month-long festival in May 2024. You're very welcome to attend more of these events; there's a wide range of themes, workshops, training, creative sessions, death cafes, open mic, exhibitions, talks and more, all taking place across Sheffield and online. Please find all events, details, and links to book your free tickets, by visiting Compassionate Sheffield’s festival webpage here:
https://www.compassionate-sheffield.co.uk/life-loss-and-death-festival

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Quaker Meeting House, 10 Saint James' Street, Sheffield City Centre, United Kingdom