Daily Memento Mori

The moment you start intellectualizing happiness is the moment you begin to lose it. Moreover, if you place your happiness in a future desire, your present self will always be in debt to it. Live in the moment, enjoy the process. The destination is merely a consequence.

Inevitably, when we say that a day went well or badly, we are attributing a human characteristic to something that, in itself, is neither good nor bad - it simply is real. Of course, we say a day goes well when we win the lottery, or a day goes badly when we lose a loved one. But in the end, these are external things, a reality that, on its own, lacks human characterization.

Living intentionally means being mindful of how we spend our time, energy, and attention each day. A simple way to start is by setting daily reminders—morning reflections to clarify what matters most, midday check-ins to realign with our values, and evening reflections to acknowledge growth. Visual cues, like a meaningful quote or a symbol of time, can serve as gentle nudges to stay present. By embracing these small practices, we can lead a life of purpose, even in the face of life’s impermanence.

The very fact alone that we all know that we are going to die is something that should bring all mankind together, not apart. This shared destiny, the inevitability of our end, serves as a universal connection, transcending cultural, social, and ideological differences. It is a reminder that beyond our diverse life experiences and beliefs, we share the same human condition. Acknowledging our mortality could encourage empathy, unity, and a deeper appreciation for the time we have with others. Instead of fear or division, this awareness should inspire collaboration and a collective effort to leave a positive mark on the world, making it a better place for future generations.

I'm creating this blog with no objective other than to express my thoughts and reflections on learning to live a fulfilling life and how philosophy can help achieve that. I aim to keep my posts concise. I'll start by explaining the page name - Daily Memento Mori. I chose this title not because I plan to post daily, but because the ephemerality of life is something that must be remembered every day — not in a depressive sense, but as a catalyst for living fully and appreciating the present moment. The title itself serves as a reminder that every day is a gift, an opportunity.