Remember you must die…

The Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius is a well-known person who personified the ideas of Memento Mori. In his works, Aurelius addresses the impermanence of life and the certainty of death, especially in “Meditations.” He writes, “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.”

Aurelius’s stoic philosophy teaches the acceptance of mortality as a natural part of life. He advocates for focusing on what is within one’s control and living virtuously. His reflections on death are not morbid but rather practical reminders to live fully and mindfully. Aurelius’s example demonstrates that acknowledging mortality can lead to a more meaningful and purposeful existence.

The Latin phrase Memento Mori means “remember you must die.” Its origins can be found in ancient Rome, when it was used as a symbol of life’s fleeting nature. Marcus Aurelius made sure to stay modest and conscious of his mortality even during the height of his glory by having assigned his aide to whisper memento mori in his ears while people used to praise him and whenever he celebrated his victories.

Memento Mori is a powerful concept that takes us back to our mortality. This idea has been central to philosophical, religious and cultural discussions throughout history, urging us to reflect on our finite existence and live meaningful lives. Recognizing our mortality fosters humility. It conveys that no matter what our achievements or status, we are all subject to the same fate. This awareness can promote empathy and compassion towards others.

Across all ages and civilizations, the idea of Memento Mori has also been widely used in literature. It is frequently seen in the writings of medieval and Renaissance writers in Western literature. The stories in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales emphasize the transience of life, and Shakespeare’s plays frequently touch on themes of death and the human condition.

John Donne’s poetry often addresses mortality and the fleeting aspect of existence. In Death Be Not Proud, Donne contests death’s authority, stating that the soul is everlasting. His sermons and musings go into further detail about mortality and exhort people to live virtuous lives in anticipation of their inevitable end.

Many faith systems talk of death. The Quran frequently reminds believers of the temporary nature of life and the certainty of death. ‘Every soul shall taste death’ (3:185) serves as a constant reminder of human mortality.

Islamic teachings encourage believers to live with an awareness of death, promoting humility and a sense of purpose. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised his followers to visit graves as a means of remembering their mortality and preparing for the Hereafter. This practice, known as “ziyarah”, highlights the value of leading a good life and seeking forgiveness for one’s wrongs.

In the contemporary world, where distractions are plentiful and the pace of life is relentless, the principles of Memento Mori are more relevant than ever. Today, we often ignore and avoid discussions on death, preferring focus on youth, efficiency and material success. However, accepting the certainty of death has huge recompense.

It first develops awareness. Understanding our own death pushes us to live in the now, cherishing each moment and finding beauty in the ordinary. By focusing on the here and now rather than the unknowns of the future, it can help us feel less stressed and anxious.  It also improves relations. Understanding that our time with loved ones is limited can deepen our connections and motivate us to prioritize meaningful interactions. It convinces us to express sincere love, pure gratitude and generous forgiveness, enriching our personal relationships.

Besides, it inspires purposeful living. When we acknowledge that life is limited, we are more likely to pursue activities and goals that align with our values and passions. It encourages us to seek fulfillment beyond material achievements, focusing on contributions that leave a lasting impact. As Aurelius puts it, “At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: “I have to go to work — as a human being. What do I have to complain of, if I’m going to do what I was born for — the things I was brought into the world to do? Or is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm?”

The lessons derived from Memento Mori are diverse. What matters is adopting humility, living authentically, prioritizing important tasks, practicing gratitude, and most importantly, preparing for the end. While it may seem morbid, preparing for the end is a practical aspect of attuning yourself to mortality. This includes organizing our affairs honestly, creating a will, and having conversations about ourselves with loved ones. It ensures that we leave behind a legacy that reflects our values and provides clarity for those we leave behind.