In the variety of Buddhism that I am interested in, there is a belief that after we die, there is a period of 49 days during which a lot takes place before our rebirth in the endless cycle of birth, death, and suffering that marks the lot of the unenlightened. There are opportunities to make choices during this period, as various phenomena are encountered, that might influence the nature of one's rebirth.



Today was the 49th day after Dad's death in Reno, and as a multiple of 7 was the same day of the week - a particularly significant day. Mona and I (and perhaps my other sister and brother) did our best to remember him in our thoughts and meditation, and tonight before I made dinner I lit a few candles for him, and enjoyed seeing his little shrine while we ate. It is said that to send one positive thoughts and do a little exercise for them while they are in this state can help them find their way to a good rebirth.

Good luck Dad.

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