An Excerpt from Being Dharma: The Essence of the Buddha's Teachings by Ajahn Chah

Thai Buddhist teacher Ajahn Chah offers his explications of the wisdom of the World Honored One. Here is a passage with a unique take on being present.

"On his visit to the United States in 1979, he established the theme of facing the executioner. 'Imagine there was a fortune-teller whose predictions were always right. You go to see him, and he tells you, "Without question you are going to die in seven days." Would you be able to sleep? You would let go of everything and meditate day and night. In truth, this is what we are all destined for, and we are facing the executioner every moment.' And he recommended as 'homework' thinking about one's own death three times a day at the very least."