Death is not defeat, but a wonderful stimulus to live more vigorously and more meaningfully.

Buddhism Day by Day

Wisdom for Modern Life by Daisaku Ikeda
Wednesday, February 6, 2013:

 

The Buddhist view is that to die a good death, one must have led a good life. The knowledge that death represents the return of the individual life to the great universal life prior to another phenomenal manifestation is a source of splendid strength, rich with compassion and wisdom. As he or she strives to perfect himself by doing good for others, the Buddhist is constantly aware that death is a fulfilling and enriching part of life. For people who believe this, death is not defeat, but a wonderful stimulus to live more vigorously and more meaningfully.