What happens when I / we die?

A simple way to understand death is to understand the universe first. When you watch a plant grow in life and give itself back to the earth, you are witnessing a cycle of birth and death.

When you watch the seasons change and change back, you witness another cycle.

Our lifetimes are like that. The part of us that returns to life after death is somewhat different from what left, but in the most important way, it is the same.

The part of you that does not die was never born. It is that part of you that is the Buddha mind existing in all things for all time.

Buddhists, especially Tibetans, have explored the death realms using advanced meditation practices.

They report that there are various realms where incarnation is possible. The realms range from severe to paradise.

To be awakened is to be completely aware of the part of yourself that exists beyond birth and death. In this state, even though your body dies, your enlightenment transcends life and death.

Do not be afraid of death. You have died countless times before, and frankly, you don't look any worse for the wear.

Stay on the path of clear action and clear mind. When you do these things, each moment of each lifetime brings you closer to enlightenment.