Momento Mori is Latin for 'Remember that you [have to] die'.
As I consider current world events, and as an avid admirer and practitioner of Stoicism, my fragility is evident.
I am having a wisdom tooth extracted today, and with a fear of the dentist, I would usually be in a bit of a state right now before the extraction.
But I am as calm as a cucumber, and here are three good reasons why.
As I think about these events, Momento Mori reminds me how utterly wonderful my life is and how insignificant a wisdom tooth extraction will be.
I could be one of the death tolls in Turkey or a relative of one of the fatalities. The thought of that and how I am alive and woke up today for my extraction with all my friends and loved ones alive and my home intact is a privilege!
I could be part of the Epson College head family and deceased from last weekend. Or, I could have woken up today as part of their surviving families.
My wife could be missing after taking our daughters to school and disappearing from a river walk, her phone still connected to a company phone call, left on a bench.
Just think about how any of those situations would make you feel.
I work my mind that way constantly. I assure you, it not only reframes fears and worries but also teaches you how powerful the meaning of Momento Mori is.
I have zero fear about my wisdom tooth extraction today, as my life is total perfection. My love and comfort are with everyone currently affected by the world's current tragedies. 💕