Memento Mori- Stoic way of drinking the juice of life I Stoicism I Quotes

The Stoics made it their mission to meditate on death and dying daily. When Stoics contemplate death, they do so not out of a desire to die, but of a desire to get the most “juice” out of life.

In a world dominated by the fear of death and an aversion to discussing its inevitability, the Stoics offer a unique perspective on mortality. In the pursuit of a more meaningful and fulfilling life, the Stoics encourage embracing the concept of "Memento Mori," a Latin phrase that translates to "remember that you will die." 

This article explores how the Stoic philosophy provides a powerful framework for confronting the fear of death, appreciating the present, and living a life in harmony with nature.

The Stoic Perspective on Death

The Stoics, particularly the renowned philosopher Marcus Aurelius, were acutely attuned to the pervasive fear of death and dying. Marcus Aurelius urged individuals to pause and reflect on their fear, questioning whether it stems from the realization that certain activities will cease upon death. This acknowledgment, although difficult to accept, serves as a pivotal step in the Stoic approach to life.

The Stoics advocated for accepting death as an inherent part of life and nature. By recognizing our mortality and understanding that death is an inevitable part of the human experience, individuals can liberate themselves from the anxiety surrounding it. The Stoics did not yearn for more than what life presented; instead, they sought to live in harmony with nature, fostering a sense of calm and indifference to external events.

Living Virtuously: A Stoic Ideal

The Stoic ideal of life revolves around cultivating a state of harmony with nature and embracing virtue. Unlike the pursuit of wealth or fame, the Stoics focused on achieving an excellent mental state, equating virtue with rationality. This perspective allowed them to confront life's challenges head-on, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than sources of distress.

A notable example of Stoic resilience is found in the story of Julius Canus, a Stoic philosopher. Facing imminent death at the hands of Emperor Caligula, Canus displayed remarkable composure, expressing gratitude to the emperor before his execution. Even when a centurion arrived to take him into custody, Canus continued playing a board game, showcasing the Stoic ability to maintain inner tranquility in the face of death.

Meditating on Death: A Tool for Appreciating the Present

Contrary to conventional wisdom, the Stoics believed that contemplating death was not a morbid exercise but a powerful tool for finding calm and gratitude. By acknowledging the finite nature of life, individuals can learn to appreciate the present, savoring the simple beauties of existence. The Stoics emphasized that the fear of death itself, rather than death itself, caused misery, and actively encouraged daily meditation on mortality.

Stoics approached this practice not with a desire to hasten death but with a profound desire to extract the maximum "juice" from life. The uncertainty of when death will arrive underscores the importance of relishing each day and using it to the fullest. By remaining mindful of our mortality, Stoics believed one could develop a sense of joy and gratitude for the gift of another day on this planet.

The Stoics made it their mission to meditate on death and dying daily. When Stoics contemplate death, they do so not out of a desire to die, but of a desire to get the most “juice” out of life. Knowing that life is finite, they opened their eyes to the simple beauties of it. Death is scary.

Epictetus and the Dichotomy of Control

Epictetus, another influential Stoic philosopher, introduced the Dichotomy of Control, a fundamental concept that distinguishes between things within and outside our control. According to Epictetus, most unhappiness arises from fixating on elements beyond our control or mistakenly believing we can influence them.

The Stoic perspective emphasizes that external events themselves are not the source of misery; rather, it is our judgments and reactions to these events that determine our emotional state. Accepting the reality that certain aspects of life are beyond our control is a pivotal step toward a more content and fulfilled existence.

What Can We Control?

While the Stoics acknowledged the limited number of things under our complete control, they emphasized the one domain where we have agency—the mind. Our judgments and perceptions of the events that unfold in our lives remain within our control. The Stoic principle of "Memento Mori" serves as a daily reminder to consciously consider our mortality, fostering a deeper appreciation for life's treasures.

By directing our focus toward the things we can control—our thoughts and attitudes—we can shape our experiences in a way that promotes gratitude and fulfillment. The Stoic philosophy encourages individuals to shift their perspective from dwelling on external circumstances to cultivating an internal mindset that is resilient in the face of life's uncertainties.

Embracing Life: Remembering That We're Mortal

In the grand scheme of existence, the Stoics assert that our individual deaths are insignificant, emphasizing the transient nature of human life. Recognizing our place in the vast cycle of nature, they advocate making the most of our time on Earth by engaging in activities that bring happiness and meaning.

"Memento Mori" serves as a powerful daily affirmation, prompting individuals to reflect on their mortality and, paradoxically, inspiring a deeper appreciation for life. By remembering that death is an integral part of the human experience, Stoicism encourages us to live authentically, savoring each moment and finding purpose in the face of uncertainty.

Conclusion

In a world often paralyzed by the fear of death, the Stoic philosophy offers a transformative perspective on mortality. By embracing the concept of "Memento Mori" and acknowledging death as an inherent part of life, individuals can cultivate a profound sense of gratitude, joy, and purpose. The Stoic way of living fully involves confronting the fear of death, meditating on its inevitability, and actively appreciating the present moment. In doing so, one can navigate life's challenges with resilience, finding solace and fulfillment in the acceptance of the natural cycle of existence.

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