Chris your post reminds me of the many lessons learned proffered by Dr. Death. With each physical death I remind myself that while the body is gone, my memories live on. (Granted, as time whirls by with exponentially increasing speed, my memory is far from what it was LOL!)

Raised in a devoutly Catholic environment I grew up with a sense of anticipation created by seasonal traditions. Of course Christmas topped the list of religious memory making.

As I grew awareness of my orientation and how (according to Catholicism) I'm destined to hell (because of my sexual wiring) religion rapidly evaporated. I switched out religion for spiritual mindfulness.

Fast forward to now, death is a reminder to savor life - daily. Tell people I love them every time we connect. Share memories with glee. Enjoy traditions of kindness, compassion and grace as often as possible.