# How "Thoughts and Prayers" Can Assist the Departed: Insights Explored
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Impact of Thoughts and Prayers
When a loved one passes away, many wonder whether "thoughts and prayers" genuinely aid the deceased. If you are not physically present with the departed, it's likely that your prayers won't have any real effect. However, if you are nearby, continue reading for deeper insights.
In death, we must consider three key elements: Karmic Load, Habitual Patterns, and Ideals.
Karmic Load: The Primary Factor
A person's Karmic Load is crucial. If someone has accumulated a significant amount of positive karma—achieving a state akin to sainthood or enlightenment—or conversely, has a heavy burden of negative karma, the influence of your thoughts and prayers is likely minimal.
Habitual Patterns: Our Living Routines
Reflect on your routines during your lifetime. Do you cultivate positive habits? If so, you're on the right path; if not, it's time to start creating beneficial patterns.
To foster good habits, a critical aspect to consider is your self-referential thoughts. Instead of pondering "Who am I?", shift your mindset to "What am I?" This subtle change can significantly enhance your life by reducing attachment to the self and improving your overall thought process. Remember, it's essential not to develop excessive attachments.
Consider the example of individuals who overly pamper their pets, treating them like human companions. Such behavior can lead to detrimental habits, potentially resulting in a future life as an animal.
Therefore, contemplate your desired reincarnation and assess whether your past actions merit a heavenly or hellish fate. Evaluate your current habits: Are they aligned with a heavenly existence or do they reflect a constant state of dissatisfaction?
Following the Ideals of the Departed
Thoughts and prayers can be powerful tools to guide the deceased towards their ideals. While karmic load and habitual patterns serve as overarching strategies, ideals function as specific tactics.
Strategizing requires planning—reflect on your past actions and typical thought processes. To implement these strategies, you need clear tactics. What do you envision for your next life? How would you improve your current existence? Direct your prayers towards these goals.
Chapter 2: Effective Practices for "Thoughts and Prayers"
To effectively offer thoughts and prayers, it's beneficial to understand the deceased's ideals. If you are unsure of their wishes, it may only be possible to speculate. Knowing these details before their passing is ideal.
Aim to perform thoughts and prayers within the first week after death, as their impact diminishes after that period. When you are near the departed, be conscious of your position—stand between their head and upper body, avoiding areas like their stomach or feet.
Visualize yourself as a benevolent figure, such as the Buddha or an angel. Relax your body and hands, imagining that you are sending a stream of positive energy toward the deceased's consciousness. Picture them in a state of contemplation, your visualization providing gentle encouragement for them to move on.
The video titled Ninth Day: Daily Thoughts and Prayers for Our Beloved Dead delves into ways to offer support and guidance to those who have passed, emphasizing the importance of intention and visualization in this profound process.