“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” - Marcus Aurelius
We don't know what is going to happen next.
We don't know what is around the corner.
We don't know how much time left we have in this physical existence.
We just don't know.
And this can be an exciting prospect.
If you choose to see it this way.
The then, Emperor of Rome.
The then, most powerful man in known civilisation.
Instead of being caught up in his position of power.
Instead of indulging in every pleasure and vice he could imagine.
Instead of allowing his extraordinary stature in the world to get to his head.
Marcus Aurelius was cognisant enough to know that he, too, like the rest of the empire he ruled, was mortal.
He, too, was flesh and bone.
He, too, was simply another individual being in the world, equally prone to death and decay.
Equally, tasked with being the best human being he can be.
Equally, on a path of upholding and having integrity towards his own truth.
A brilliant man who sat on the most coveted seat on earth.
A man still aware enough to remind himself to act as if every moment were to be his last.
We can all learn a thing or two (or a million) from this 'just-a-man' who just happened to have all the power in the world.
In my latest blog post, "Memento Mori", I discuss the concept of death, how it is somewhat of a taboo topic, and how viewing it differently, embracing it, can truly change not only our approach to life, but how we experience it as well. Read my post to see the full discussion.
Strive to live, live to strive.
Image C/O fee.org/