"To practice death is to practice freedom. A man who has learned how to die has unlearned how to be a slave.” - Michel de Montaigne

In the grand tapestry of life, there is a constant companion that walks beside us, yet is often overlooked or pushed aside in our daily pursuits: mortality. The awareness of our own mortality, the knowledge that our time on this Earth is limited, can have profound effects on how we perceive and live our lives. While the contemplation of death may seem daunting or unsettling, embracing mortality brings numerous benefits that can enhance our existence, foster personal growth, and shape our priorities. This essay explores the transformative power of being aware of our mortality and the positive impact it can have on our lives.

• Appreciation for the Present: Awareness of mortality serves as a reminder that our time is finite and every moment is precious. By recognizing the impermanence of life, we become more present in the here and now. Instead of anxiously dwelling on the past or obsessively planning for the future, we learn to savor the present moment, finding joy and fulfillment in the simple pleasures of life. Whether it's a beautiful sunset, a heartfelt conversation, or a shared laugh with loved ones, our awareness of mortality compels us to embrace the present fully.

• Clarification of Priorities: Contemplating our mortality brings clarity to our values and priorities. It helps us differentiate between what truly matters and what is merely trivial. We become less inclined to waste our time and energy on superficial pursuits or toxic relationships. Instead, we focus on cultivating meaningful connections, pursuing our passions, and making a positive impact on the world. The awareness of our limited time propels us to align our actions with our values, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives.

• Motivation for Personal Growth: The acknowledgment of our own mortality ignites a powerful drive for personal growth and self-improvement. We realize that life's opportunities are fleeting, and if we want to make a lasting impact, we must make the most of the time we have. This awareness pushes us out of our comfort zones, encourages us to take risks, and pursue personal and professional growth. It inspires us to set meaningful goals, overcome obstacles, and embrace new experiences. By embracing our mortality, we transform our lives into a constant journey of growth and self-discovery.

• Cultivation of Meaningful Relationships: Knowing that our time with loved ones is limited compels us to cherish and nurture our relationships more deeply. We become more present and attentive, making an effort to truly connect with others. The awareness of mortality teaches us the importance of forgiveness, empathy, and compassion, as we recognize that harboring grudges or holding onto resentments only wastes precious time. We prioritize spending quality time with loved ones, creating lasting memories, and fostering deeper bonds. The knowledge of our finite existence inspires us to love more fiercely and live with an open heart.

• Living Authentically: Mortality confronts us with the fragility of life and the inevitability of our own death. This confrontation prompts us to question our purpose and authenticity. It compels us to live in alignment with our true selves, expressing our values, and embracing our unique identities. By embracing mortality, we shed societal expectations and embrace the freedom to live according to our own beliefs and passions. We become less concerned with external judgments and more focused on living a life that is genuine and fulfilling.

Embracing mortality is not an exercise in morbidity but an invitation to live a more vibrant, purposeful, and meaningful life. Awareness of our finite existence awakens us to the beauty and significance of each passing moment. It provides us with the impetus to appreciate the present, clarify our priorities, foster personal growth, nurture meaningful relationships, and live authentically. By embracing our mortality, we embark on a transformative journey that enriches our lives and leaves a lasting impact on the world around us.