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“Memento Mori’: A Philosophical Tool For Finding Clarity In Life

The wisdom of mortality

Thomas Oppong
4 min readJun 29, 2021
Photo: Freepik

“Memento mori” is the Latin word for ‘remember that you [have to] die’. It’s not a call to despair. It’s a call to appreciate life right now.

It’s an ancient practice of remembering that life is not unlimited and using that knowledge to do everything in your power to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Or better still, using that to determine how we spend our lives.

“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” Marcus Aurelius said.

“Memento mori” is a call to reflect, pause and ponder our place in the universe. It’s also a call to be mindful of our daily choices and remember to do everything in our power to embrace the fullness of life right now.

The human fate is mortality. You know that already. But how many times do you use that to remind you to live life to the fullest every day?

Focus on what gives you meaning

“Do every act of your life as though it were the very last act of your life.” — Marcus Aurelius

It’s a simple reminder to focus on the essential priorities in life. The mortality of…

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Thomas Oppong
Thomas Oppong

Written by Thomas Oppong

Making the wisdom of great thinkers instantly accessible. As seen on Forbes, Inc. and Business Insider. For my popular essays, go here: https://thomasoppong.com

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