Whisper of Death: How Mortality Awakens Us to Life

Image generated with OpenAI by the author

  Death reminds us about how fleeting life is.

  We feel this more when someone passes early. It prompts us to reflect on what we've done and what we haven't. As the list grows, we think about how we can do more while life is still within our grasp.

  Death is never a fun subject, but it's a reality of life.

  I lost my best friend due to cancer before he was able to turn 30. He had an aggressive form of lymphoma. It was the toughest time in my life. Knowing that I wouldn't have more time with him, but at least I have the memories, which I will cherish until the end.

  This event changed my perspective on life. I realized that I needed to spend more time with my friends and family. No more taking for granted the time I have left.

“I cannot escape death, but at least I can escape the fear of it.”

~ Epictetus

  When we start to take our time seriously, the fear of death dissipates. Make the best of each day, and you will feel more fulfilled. If you feel good about what you've done and the time you've had with your loved ones, the threat of death can be escaped.

  Death doesn't remind us only once about how limited our time is; it reminds us over and over again.

  A family friend just passed away from the same form of lymphoma my best friend suffered from. This caused a rush of the same feelings I had when I lost my best friend. The reminder that tomorrow is never guaranteed. The reminder that I could be taken from this world in an instant, or worse—

…the ones I love.

  The death of a loved one reminds us of our mortality.

  After hearing of the passing of our family friend, I found myself studying the inscription of my favorite challenge coin, gifted to me by my wife, "Memento Mori". Punched into the coin is a personified image of death holding a scythe. "Remember you will die" is the translation of these words. A saying that is meant to humble all of us. Great Roman generals and soldiers used to have a slave whisper this to them as they returned victorious from battle. It was used to temper their pride and hubris.

  It's a reminder to all of us…

  A reminder that I can't sit around and wait for life to happen. Waiting for life to happen is a characteristic of a low-agency individual, something I'm not. I take action and strive to achieve more. That's why I write, learn, and take opportunities that make sense to me. It's what my passed loved ones would want for me.

  I dig deeper into high and low-agency people in this article. (Link Here)

  It's sad to lose a loved one. The thought reduces motivation, makes us think about what we've lost, and reflect on regrets. It's a combination that makes us stand still.

  That's why I choose to think differently.

  My "Memento Mori" challenge coin isn't only a reminder to move forward in life, but I use it to make sure I honor the memory of my passed loved ones. To celebrate the life they had. They don't want me to stand still; they want me to succeed. They want me to use my time effectively with people I love and with purpose. They want me to have no regrets about the time I use. I still mourn them, but I'm not standing still while doing it.

  Life is fleeting.

  Time escapes us faster than we realize. Don't stand still. Honor those who have passed. Spend time with your friends and family, and move towards your dreams.

  Remember, you will die, and tomorrow is never guaranteed.

“Life, if well lived, is long enough.”

~ Seneca