An unusual wish

I spent few days in Gokarna chanting rudra in the monumental project of 'Koti Rudra'. I got opportunities to see stream of devotees, performing various rituals, with specific desires/wishes, obtaining assistance from local priests. The wishes of devotees were ranging from early marriage, good jobs, prosperity in business, cure from illness, success in political/legal ventures etc. But, there was one exception.

An old lady, who was performing a pooja with intense devotion, was however had an unusual wish of seeking early death!.
The priest was resourceful, and stated that instead of seeking early death, a peaceful death can be sought without becoming a burden to others and at a suitable time. अनायासेन मरणं विना दैन्येन जीवितं ... the priest continued to chant. Tears were rolling down from the eyes of the woman. The old woman was a personification of sense of fulfillment and a desire not to outlive utility. Her surrender to God with humility is certainly exemplary. My eyes too were wet. 

A shloka in Mahabharata says:

अनित्यं यौवनं रूपं जीवितं द्रव्यसंचय : |
आरोग्यं प्रियसंवासो ग्रुद्येदेशु न पंडित: ||

{Youth, beauty, life, wealth, health, freindship etc are all temporary. Wise men should not be too eager to cling to them}