Here’s a story I read recently but kept forgetting to post here:

One devotee asked his Guru about how he will be able to find a way to God when so many temptations litter the path of life. The Guru told him that he knew a bit of astrology and based on that the death of the devotee was sure to occur in next 5 days. He advised him to wind up his affairs as best as he could.

The devotee, though crushed at the thought that his end was near, nevertheless, went home and diligently started setting his life in order. He paid off his debts, got back his money from those who owed him, took care of inheritance and made peace with estranged friends and relatives.

After 5 days, finding himself still alive, he came to his Guru, astonished. The Guru, however, calmly asked him if he had been tempted by the many attractions of life. The disciple replied that it was hardly possible with death staring him in the face.

The Guru laughed and told him that that was the way to live life – as if death is staring you in the face – so as to always stay on the right path.