Death

Is death such a monstrous event in one's life? Should death be feared? Is Hell or Heaven the only reward in the world hereafter? I have listened to so many religious talks that give emphasis on Hell if one does something that's not according to the teaching of that particular religion. It bothers me to listen to religious talks that God will reward those who do and follow religiously all the dos and don'ts of that particular religion without question. I wonder, if it is so why God creates brain and mind for humans to use? Do we have to follow blindly and not question the logic or reason behind it? Things become more confusing when people cannot differentiate between religious teachings and cultural practices based on own interpretation of the religion.
I got turned off when I read Bill Cosby's condemnation of Islam because the Afghans maimed the women who go against family wishes. Clearly he is so small-minded, ignorant and judging and refused to see that that's actually cultural beliefs and practices and that Islam doesn't teach its followers to be cruel. I find ignorance, prejudice and suspicion of Islam among my non- muslim friends and acquintances are most annoying and disgusting. The fault also lies on the muslims. Some Malay muslims here are so closed-minded, judging and so ready to run people down, who they think are not Islamic, which is actually contrary to the teaching of Islam. I steer clear of this kind of people. In one facebook message, one guy condemned females who don't cover their heads and decide to delete them from his list of friends. I hope he has deleted me. Good riddance!!!
Talking about death, I just had a phone conversation with an old friend whom I have not heard for quite a while. Being on the verge of 70s, she is so wrapped up in 'fear' in case something happens to her unexpectedly. So she is being careful and unwilling to venture out on her own, depending heavily on her children. So her activities are limited to housework and going to mosque and attending religious classes to prepare her for the hereafter. What I do is exactly the opposite.
I am not a religious person but I faithfully do all my duty as a Muslim. At my age, I believe it's not about me anymore, it's about what I can leave behind as my contribution to the next generation - in a small way. Death to me is not to be feared. If I am destined to die anywhere so be it. After all this is God's world. He knows where I am. He has created such a beautiful world with different types of people, places, scenery etc. for us to enjoy. So we should enjoy it and be humbled by it. I don't have much money to donate to worthy causes but I have time and energy. I donate my expertise and time to the unfortunates whenever I can, and feel fulfilled by it. So, if death decides to pay me a visit, it's welcome. I have no regrets.

Fear is not a good friend. Conquer it and make it your good friend.