I have begun to confront my own mortality at 23 years old, perhaps too young to do so, but it's driven me into a bizarre state of neurosis and indecision. The Marcus Aurlieus quote at the end hits deeply. Thank you for writing this at such an opportune time in my life.
The importance of living intentionally and recognising the preciousness of every day are profoundly inspiring. Each day is a gift, and we should make the most of it. The story of Ivan Ilyich by Tolstoy is a powerful example of how confronting mortality can lead to a deeper understanding of love, compassion, and the true essence of life. Thank you for sharing this reflection.
What constitute “grand and beautiful designs?” I imagine opinions differ whether they be for some great or small good. A life lived with intent and purpose could still be wholly self-seeking and devoid of any primary pursuit of a common good. Or do truly worthwhile lives need to be lived pursuing the increase in wellbeing and productivity of other people? If Ivan Illych had instead looked on his life with pride, is his story still a tragedy, or is a totally self-centered life just a fantasy anyway?
(Trying to play a little devil’s advocate. Also, I laughed out loud when I read that R.D. Laing quote)
The first line immediately hooked me. I was like "what?! wait!, please continue" Thanks for sharing this. It's very raw. That's what we need; a loud reminder that we're not guaranteed the next minute so let's just live.
I have begun to confront my own mortality at 23 years old, perhaps too young to do so, but it's driven me into a bizarre state of neurosis and indecision. The Marcus Aurlieus quote at the end hits deeply. Thank you for writing this at such an opportune time in my life.
The importance of living intentionally and recognising the preciousness of every day are profoundly inspiring. Each day is a gift, and we should make the most of it. The story of Ivan Ilyich by Tolstoy is a powerful example of how confronting mortality can lead to a deeper understanding of love, compassion, and the true essence of life. Thank you for sharing this reflection.
This was lovely. Thank you Sherry :)
Great piece, I have a post in my drafts that hits on similar points, but you’ve done a swell enough job that I will delete it haha
haha. please don't. I'd love to read it.
Such a thought provoking inspirational piece of writing. Thanks for sharing.👏✍️
Well said. A wise message. It's ultimately about being genuine to ourselves and also recognizing and prioritizing the truly meaningful things in life.
What constitute “grand and beautiful designs?” I imagine opinions differ whether they be for some great or small good. A life lived with intent and purpose could still be wholly self-seeking and devoid of any primary pursuit of a common good. Or do truly worthwhile lives need to be lived pursuing the increase in wellbeing and productivity of other people? If Ivan Illych had instead looked on his life with pride, is his story still a tragedy, or is a totally self-centered life just a fantasy anyway?
(Trying to play a little devil’s advocate. Also, I laughed out loud when I read that R.D. Laing quote)
Interesting analogy! Ivan Ilyich & Barbie!!
Found this essay literally moments after reading Cioran on Tolstoy’s Ilyich and the fear of death https://youtu.be/65Oyd0cCWgw?si=JFOTuRPvjOfEjITo
The first line immediately hooked me. I was like "what?! wait!, please continue" Thanks for sharing this. It's very raw. That's what we need; a loud reminder that we're not guaranteed the next minute so let's just live.
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❤️