Passing Through
- Linda Lovin
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
Lately, I’ve spent a lot of time at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque and have become acutely aware of Native wisdom that offers a perspective on life and death as a natural part of the life cycle. In this tradition, death is not an endpoint but a transition — a passing through into the spirit world. This cultural view reframes loss, courage, and connection in ways that invite us to live more fully today.
At the Center, I came across words from Grandfather Storyteller, Pablita Velarde of Santa Clara Pueblo, that beautifully capture this perspective:
"In our traditional stories we recognize and celebrate life cycles. We pray for those who have gone on, those here now, and those yet to come. In this way, we are connected to our ancestors, to each other, and to future generations."
This teaching reminds us that life is not linear, but cyclical — birth, living, dying, and returning to the spirit world are all part of a natural flow. The emphasis is not on “losing” someone forever, but on honoring the spirit as it continues its journey.
In this way, the words we use matter deeply. In much of Western culture, phrases like passing on often imply separation and finality. But “passing through” offers a gentler, more hopeful vision — one of movement, continuity, and connection. The spirit is simply traveling on, not vanishing.
This understanding also reshapes how we live. If death is simply a passage, then fear loses its grip. We are invited to live with purpose, aware that each day is part of a greater cycle of belonging — to the earth, to each other, and to those who came before and will come after us.
Reflective Questions for Coaching and Life:
How would my life be different if I viewed death as passing through rather than as an end?
In what ways can I honor the presence and wisdom of my ancestors in daily life? Consider creating a personal ritual of gratitude for an ancestor or loved one, reinforcing connection rather than separation.
What would it look like to live with less fear and more purpose, knowing that life continues in cycles? Would it be helpful to think of life as a circle rather than a line? Would this shape how grief, renewal, and remembrance are lived?
The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center offers this final reminder about connection and continuity:
"In most Pueblo languages, there is no word for goodbye. Because we believe in the cyclical nature of our existence, we know we will meet again, whether in the near future or at a time far off. As we part with you today, we prefer to say 'See you next time,' 'See you later,' or 'Until we meet again.'"
Until we meet again....
In your corner,
Linda
With respect and gratitude to Pueblo communities and tradition-bearers whose teachings inspire this reflection.
