"The Teachings of Don Juan" advise that death is our constant companion, hovering without pause “just over our left shoulder,” relentlessly waiting to ensnare us, perhaps when we expect it least.
Don Juan admonished Castenada to never forget this fact, to always keep the cold reality of his imminent death in mind, for always, only one breath separated us from it.
Because it is real, acknowledging death’s presence dissolves the illusion held by most people: that they will always have a second chance tomorrow to do what they meant to do today. That notion is simply untrue, and that notion - that we always will have time - keeps people from doing what they want or need to do when they have the time to do it, and that time is right now.
By keeping in mind our imminent death, he said, we view each sunset as though it was our last, make amends when we cause hurt, enjoy the warmth and closeness of a hug from someone we love as though we may never see them again.
For we may never again have the opportunity offered by this moment, for our end is as close as our next breath. That is real. And, that reality should always motivate us to act now.