Preparing for Death and Helping the Dying

their religious beliefs and practices. DO NOT attempt
to impose your own beliefs or try to convert
them. To do that would be disrespectful and unethical,
and could cause them to become confused and
disturbed.
If the person has no religion, use non-religious
terminology to speak to them in ways that will help
them to be free of negative thoughts such as anger
and attachment, and develop positive thoughts and
a peaceful state of mind. If they show interest in
knowing what you believe in, you can tell them, but
be careful not to preach. It might be more effective
to have a discussion in which you openly share ideas
with each other. For example, if the person asks you
what happens after we die, instead of immediately
launching into an explanation of rebirth, you might
say something like “I’m not really sure. What do you
think?” And take it from there.
If they genuinely wish to know about Buddhist
beliefs and practices, it’s perfectly OK to explain these
to them. You can talk about the Buddha’s life and
teachings, the Four Noble Truths, impermanence,
loving-kindness and compassion, and so forth. Just
be sensitive to their response—be careful not to be
pushy, otherwise the person could become negative.
32