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Memento Mori — Contemplate Death To Revitalize Your Life
Remember, you must die
The other day, I went on a run.
The air was brisk and lively with clear blue skies. It was the perfect day for trail running. I love it when the cool air contrasts with the sun’s warm rays.
I doffed my shirt and breathed in the fresh fall air. Running shirtless makes me feel wild and free. It feels primal; I might even say animalistic.
If I could, I’d run with nothing at all on. But with long scruffy hair throughout my body, people would think I’m big foot. I do like attention but making the front page might render me homeless.
Like a gazelle, I gracefully weaved through oak and pine trees, past prairie and babbling brook. The sound of the water trickling gently over rocks eased me into tranquility.
But as I rounded the bend, my peace would quickly dissipate as I encountered something harrowing.
There, on the edge of the trail was a deer carcass. Half eaten, it lay with ribs and muscle exposed. The gruesome image took me aback.
We must die
Like a deer in the headlights, I stood there in shock and stared at the dead animal. Coyotes are present in this wooded area of New Jersey.
Tall and mischievous, they’ve been known to hunt small mammals including deer. My guess is this deer fell prey to the pack.
Then and there, I was reminded of an old Latin phrase — Memento Mori.
Since the 2nd- century, it has been a stark reminder of life’s finite nature. Found in the Book of Ecclesiastes, it translates to, “Remember you must die.”
Contemplating death reminds us of our inherent mortality. While it may sound morbid, death's appearance throughout life prompts action and appreciation for our numbered days.
It may seem like we will always be here, but our time is limited and we will soon be replaced. Considering death clarifies what’s important and simplifies happiness.
Aware of my fate, I forgo putting off my dreams for another day.
