Glad to hear the book is speaking to you. Another one is Tuesdays with Morrie; loved that book.

This will take soem time and thought, but I'll give it a stab.

Do you fear death?

I don't fear death because I believe I'm going to a better place, but having to live while dying is another thing. I watched Mom wither away to nothing and it was painful for all of us, including her - physically and mentally. However, I still believe God was at work teaching all of us something about ourselves and our relationship with Mom and one another until the moment she died.

Do you look on it as a reward to life?
I do, but I do not believe it is a measured reward based on how one lives their life. I believe there will be no suffering, no pain, no sadness, or anything negative. That said, I believe that for all who believe Christ came to give us eteranl life. So I don't think it's any better or worse for one person or another.

Do you wish it didn't have to be a part of life?

No, I'm cool with it. I wouldn't want to live forever.

When you really think about it, does it paint life differently for you?
Absolutely, it gives me peace in knowing that I have nothing to fear should something tragic happen and I end up dying.

Does it challenge your feelings of personal significance?
No, we are all created equal.

Does it render your earthly endeavors meaningless, making you realize how insignificant we each are in the grand scheme of things?
No. Just the opposite. I believe we have all been given gifts and we are called to use them for the good of God and others. When we strive to live according to His will, we continue to see the blessings and purpose of our lives. We are all a part of His plan.

Thanks for asking these questions. I thoroughly enjoy reading what others believe because it causes me to pause and ponder which is good.

I recently read The Faith Club which is a book abouta these three women - a Christian, a Muslim and a Jew who were all in NY on 9/11. They met for several years and chatted about the similarities and differences within their beliefs. It was an awesome read if this topic interests you. They discussed death and dying too.