By Pierre T. Makusha
Thoughts run deep | Words flow slow
“Mortality is a powerful motivator. It can make us more focused, more urgent, and more intentional about how we live our lives.” ― Brené Brown
As someone who has long grappled with the inevitability of death, I’ve often found myself meditating on the unknowns of mortality. From a young age, I’ve contemplated the impermanence of life, even venturing into the realm of dreams where I’ve confronted my own mortality. This existential inquiry has led me to a profound realization: the awareness of our own mortality, though daunting, holds transformative power.
Mortality Salience which is the awareness of our own mortality, is an inescapable truth that we all must confront. Yet, we often avoid it, fearing the anxiety and uncertainty that come with it. But what if this awareness could be harnessed as a catalyst for growth, inspiring us to re-evaluate our priorities, foster meaningful relationships, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for life?
This exploration seeks to unpack the profound impact of Mortality Salience on our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. From influencing our values and priorities to shaping our relationships and worldview, the effects of Mortality Salience are far-reaching and profound. Listed are the four ways in which mortality salience can have an impact on in our lives, cultivation of deeper connections , evaluation and reevaluation of our priorities ,finding meaning and purpose, sustainability and legacy.
Cultivation of Deeper Connections
Confronting our own mortality can be a powerful catalyst for cherishing the time we have with loved ones and prioritizing meaningful connections. As we acknowledge the preciousness of life, we begin to see the importance of investing in relationships that truly matter, rather than wasting time on superficial connections.
By cultivating deeper, more meaningful connections, we can create a sense of community, belonging, and support. We can form relationships built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding, leading to a deeper sense of connection and purpose. These connections can encompass a wide range of relationships, including family bonds, romantic partnerships, friendships, business associations, and professional networks.
Evaluation and Reevaluation Of Our Priorities
Mortality Salience has a profound impact on our priorities, prompting us to evaluate and reevaluate what truly matters. When confronted with our own mortality, our priorities suddenly become crystal clear. We’re forced to confront the harsh reality that our time is limited, and every moment counts. This realization can be both unsettling and liberating.
As Marcus Aurelius so eloquently put it, “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” By acknowledging the uncertainty and fragility of life, we can learn to appreciate every moment, cherish the little things, and make the most of the time we have. Mortality Salience helps us let go of non-essentials, eliminate distractions, and focus on what truly adds meaning and value to our lives.
Finding Meaning And Purpose
As a result of this newfound awareness, finding meaning and purpose becomes a pressing concern. Confronted with our own mortality, we’re forced to confront the ultimate question: what makes life worth living? Mortality Salience prompts us to reevaluate our values, goals, and aspirations, and to seek out activities and pursuits that bring us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By acknowledging the finite nature of our existence, we’re motivated to pursue our passions, and make an impact on the world. This search for meaning and purpose can lead us to discover our core values, to nurture our relationships, and to cultivate a sense of contribution and significance, ultimately giving us a sense of direction, motivation, and fulfillment.
Sustainability And Leaving A legacy
As we confront our own mortality, we’re compelled to consider the legacy we’ll leave behind and the impact our actions will have on future generations. Mortality Salience sparks a sense of responsibility to live sustainably, to reduce our footprint, and to preserve the planet for those who come after us. By acknowledging the impermanence of our existence, we’re motivated to make choices that promote the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants, and to create a lasting legacy that reflects our values and contributions. This shift in perspective encourages us to adopt sustainable practices, support causes that benefit the greater good, and strive to leave a positive, enduring impact on the world.
In conclusion, it is the writer’s quest for all of us to embrace mortality and not fear it. For it is in engagement with it that we can find meaning and purpose to life, ensuring we have lived fulfilling lives. Death is the mirror in which the true nature of life is reflected. By acknowledging and accepting our own mortality, we can transcend our fears and limitations, and live with greater intention, purpose, and passion.
Pierre Tafara Makusha writes in his personal capacity and his views does not represent that of any institution.
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