From Inevitable to Incredible: Lessons from Death, Taxes, and the Sacred Rhythm of Life
What if the two things we dread most—death and taxes—are actually invitations into greater presence, purpose, and prosperity?
Benjamin Franklin famously said, “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” But what if both offer not just inevitability, but insight? This reflection explores how contemplating death and approaching taxes with rhythm and reverence can unlock emotional freedom and financial flow. Plus, a gentle invitation to join this month’s From Fear to Flourishing workshop.
Benjamin Franklin once said, “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” That old saying might make us cringe, but this week, I found myself leaning into both with unexpected softness.
Each morning, I open the WeCroak app, inspired by a Bhutanese saying, to be a happy person, one must contemplate death five times daily. It’s not as morbid as it sounds—contemplating death may actually be a key to happiness.
I spent some time meditating on death—not as a grim end, but as a reminder. In Buddhist maranasati practice, we are invited to reflect deeply on our mortality—not to fear it, but to awaken to life’s fullness.
As the Buddha said: “Of all the footprints, that of the elephant is supreme. Similarly, of all mindfulness meditation, that on death is supreme.”
At first glance, death and taxes seem like cruel certainties. But what if they’re also invitations—to be present, to plan wisely, and to contribute meaningfully?
From Dread to Flow
In a recent conversation with Jessica—my daughter and a close confidante—we got talking about taxes. Not a thrilling topic, but one that sparks reflection every year. We both noticed how easy it is to freeze when money’s tight—or when the fear of owing looms large. Where did I put those tax forms?!
The good news? You can use the psychology of money to cope with the stress of tax season. And you can turn those lost papers into an opportunity to declutter.
When we resist taxes, it’s often because we see them as an intrusion, an obstacle in our path. But what if we viewed them as part of a natural financial rhythm? A moment to pause, reflect, and recalibrate.
Three Liberating Truths About Taxes
1. Resistance amplifies stress. 🌀
Procrastination rarely pays off—especially when it’s time to file. The sooner we begin, the less power fear has over us.
2. Taxes are part of life’s financial rhythm. 🌱
I set aside a small amount each “paycheck” throughout the year for my taxes. It’s a simple act that transforms anxiety into alignment. You don’t need a fancy system—just a consistent one.
3. Paying taxes is a contribution. 💞
Taxes, like death, can also be seen as a form of liberation. They’re how we fund the world we live in—our roads, public services, schools, and healthcare. When we pay taxes, we are contributing to a greater good.
The Cycle of Life—and Tax Season
Just as death is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, taxes are part of the ongoing cycle of life. They ask us to pause, tidy up our finances, and set intentions for the year ahead. They remind us that we are not isolated individuals but interconnected beings living in relationship with one another and the systems around us.
✨ Want to explore this rhythm further—especially when finances feel foggy or fears creep in?
Join me for From Fear to Flourishing, this month’s live workshop for soulpreneurs ready to gently thaw financial freeze and move into conscious, compassionate action.
Together, we’ll name what’s scary, honor what’s sacred, and take steps toward sustainable prosperity.
👉 Join the Workshop: From Fear to Flourishing
Move from financial freeze to sacred flow—together.
🔗 Share This Insight: Someone you love might need this perspective today.
📝Tell Me What Resonates
I’d love to hear your reflections and rituals.
✨ Get More Prosperity Wisdom
Gentle reminders, soulful strategy, and a whole lot of heart.
Good words for anyone to ponder on!