What our grim silent partner can teach us.

I was speaking to my very good friend Lisa today and the subject of death came up. No, we were not having a conversation about killing ourselves; we are way too wonderful to end it now. We were contemplating on the benefits of knowing that one day we’re going to die. Speaking of those benefits she said, “Death is liberating.” I imagine some people cringing as they read this thinking, how can the knowledge of your inevitable death be beneficial?

At the end of the day, at the end of our lives, we all have the same outcome, death. It’s there, waiting patiently for us, like an obsessed ex-girlfriend sitting in your parking lot, it may not be today, it may not be tomorrow, but the bitch is going to find us. You ever stress out about nonsensical matters? Do you take them way too seriously? Do you hold grudges for things that could easily be dismissed? Ask yourself, why? Why would you do that to yourself when ultimately it won’t mean a thing? Life is short; why not enjoy our splendid voyage investing in important issues rather than in issues that will soon be forgotten?

There are matters we should strive toward, for the benefit of ourselves, our family, and the species. There are issues that if not taken care of, would leave a heavy burden for the next generation. And even in these cases, death isn’t necessarily our enemy. Ever play a video game with a cheat code? How boring does it become when you get unlimited life, or even health? You don’t enjoy the game when it’s that easy. There is no challenge, there is nothing to overcome. The knowledge of our limited time can make our victories so much sweeter.

Death can be scary, and at times, unfortunately for some in horrific and inescapable situations, becomes the only liberator that brings peace; however, those with the good fortune and opportunity to enjoy their time on this racing rock, death need not be a bearer of fear. Death can be a reminder that we are not going to be here forever, and for some of us, it is a welcome partner in our journey. A grim, silent partner, that teaches us not to take life for granted. A dark figure that whispers, “Enjoy all the things that make life great, while you can, you won’t have it forever.”