It is crucial, therefore, that those left behind understand the transition process. Emotional outpouring brought about by shock, denial, guilt or anger, especially in the wake of sudden death, in most cases hinders relinquishment. If, before the funeral, it is possible for loved ones to catch a glimpse of the resolution accomplished in the months, days or even minutes leading up to the death, then overwhelming grief can begin to give way to acceptance, and the person's death can be seen in the context of their life as a whole. Perhaps in such a context, Arette and Dai's lives emphasised emotional healing and a move toward confident assertion of the integrated personal self. Their death, together and on the bike which for both of them symbolised freedom, healing and at-one-ment with nature, was a means of literally hurtling them into ongoing expanded service unencumbered by regrets or unfinished business.

This article was first published in Psicosintesi: Psychosynthesis Magazine, Italy, April 1996. Jan holds certification in Psychosynthesis, a form of psychology which sees the individual as a seamless physical-spiritual being.

References
1. AA Bailey: From Bethlehem to Calvary Lucis 1981 (1937) p242
2. R Assagioli: The Act of Will Turnstone Press 1984