Today is Anzac Day, and something about the day’s tone pierces my heart as we remember those who have fallen to protect our freedom. The bugle and bagpipes sound hit a raw part of my being with a paradox of grave sadness, gratitude, and an immense will to make meaning of the time I have left on this earth’s plain. In a word, it is “Memento mori.”
In a world that often glorifies eternal youth, boundless success, and relentless pursuit of pleasure, a profound paradox exists in death’s inevitability. Memento mori, a Latin phrase meaning “remember that you must die,” is a stark reminder of life’s impermanence and the transient nature of existence. Contrary to societal norms, embracing memento mori can offer profound insights into living a more purposeful, meaningful, and fulfilling life.
Confronting Mortality
At its core, Memento Mori challenges us to face our mortality and that of others and to acknowledge the finite nature of our time on this earth. It’s not about avoiding thoughts of death but about embracing them as a catalyst for reflection and action. By accepting the inevitability of our own demise, we are spurred to live with intention, prioritize what truly matters, and make the most of our time.
How often have you thought to call someone and put it off for another day? How would you feel if that day did not come because the other person had suddenly died before you had a chance to call? How would it feel if you had an argument with someone and said things you did not mean, yet never had the opportunity to tell them because you or they died before you could? There are no guarantees in life, and none of us know when our time will come, so keeping Memento mori on your shoulder makes sure you leave nothing undone when that time comes.
Cultivating Gratitude
In the face of life’s uncertainties, memento mori invites us to cultivate gratitude for the precious gift of existence. Each moment becomes a fleeting opportunity to savor the beauty of the world around us, to cherish the relationships that enrich our lives, and to express appreciation for the myriad experiences that shape our journey. By embracing gratitude, we shift our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a deep sense of contentment and fulfillment. Memento mori is not just a reminder of death but a celebration of life.
For me, this is done with one shift of a word. Instead of saying, “I have to,” I say, “I get to.” For instance, “grrrrr, I have to go for a run,” I say, “I get to go for a run; how many people would love to go for a run and can’t because of ill health or sigh, I have to go grocery shopping, no, I get to go grocery shopping, how many people can’t afford to.
Seizing the Day
By recognizing the fleeting nature of life, we are inspired to seize the day, embrace opportunities with courage and conviction, and pursue our passions with unwavering dedication. Whether we are pursuing a long-held dream, expressing love to those dear to us, or simply relishing the beauty of the present moment, memento mori serves as a potent reminder to live fully and authentically.
Embracing Impermanence
In a world of constant change, memento mori invites us to embrace impermanence as an inherent aspect of the human experience. Rather than clinging to the illusion of permanence, we are encouraged to release attachment to outcomes, to accept the ebb and flow of life’s rhythms, and to find beauty in the transient nature of existence. In doing so, we cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for the ever-evolving tapestry of life.
Living with Intention
Ultimately, embracing memento mori is not about dwelling on the inevitability of death but rather about embracing life with greater depth, meaning, and authenticity. Integrating this timeless reminder into our daily lives empowers us to live with intention, cultivate gratitude, and savor each moment as a precious gift. In the words of Marcus Aurelius, “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.”
So, on this Anzac Day, as we navigate the labyrinth of existence, let us embrace memento mori as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a life of purpose, passion, and profound significance. By confronting our mortality with courage and grace, we unlock the true essence of what it means to be alive, love, and leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of others.
