[whitecrow]

Originally Posted by Avid

But still, my mother is very aware, and warned me not to delve too far, but to do what we need to do now, she is not afraid. However, as they are older and resigned to the 'other side' (as she says), they seem to have no fear...

I'm impressed by your concern for your family, and you seem to be on the right track. Your mom sounds pretty wise. Her advice, "not to delve too far, but to do what we need to do now" is smack-on. And it is possible to reach a point where there is no real fear of death. Many of course, never reach that place, and it's a shame. Only the ego fears, and it does not conduce to advancement.