To be born is to die! To serve is to surrender to this truth. There is no way of escape!

The concept of mortality is a fundamental aspect of existence that has been a subject of contemplation and inquiry since the dawn of civilization. From ancient philosophers to modern-day thinkers, the inevitability of death has been a central theme in discussions about life, purpose, and self-awareness. This essay will delve the philosophical and existential implications of mortality, exploring how the acceptance of our finite existence can shape our perspectives on life and influence our understanding of purpose and self-awareness.

In contemplating our mortality, one cannot escape the stark that death is an and universal experience. No matter how much wealth, power, or influence one may possess, all individuals are bound by the same fate of eventual demise. This realization can be unsettling and even terrifying for many, as it forces us to confront the impermanence of our existence and the fragility of our human condition.

However, for those who have the courage to embrace their mortality and accept the transient nature of life, a profound shift in perspective can occur. Rather than living in denial or fear of death, accepting our mortality can lead to a deeper appreciation for the present moment and a heightened sense of gratitude for the gift of life. As the ancient Stoic philosopher Seneca famously said, "Let us prepare our minds as if we'd come to the very end of life. Let us postpone nothing. Let us balance life's books each day... The one who puts the finishing touches on their life each day is never short of time."

This idea of living each day as if it were our last can imbue our existence with a sense of urgency and purpose, motivating us to pursue our passions, cultivate meaningful relationships, and strive for personal growth and fulfillment. In the face of mortality, trivial concerns and petty grievances lose their hold on us, and we are inspired to focus on what truly matters in life.

Moreover, the acceptance of mortality can also lead to a deepening of our self-awareness and understanding of our place in the universe. Recognizing the finite nature of our lives can prompt us to reflect on our values, beliefs, and priorities, and to confront the existential questions that lie at the heart of our human experience. Who am I? What is my purpose? What legacy do I wish to leave behind? These are the questions that arise when we come face to face with our mortality, forcing us to confront the ultimate reality of our existence.

In grappling with these profound questions, we may find solace in the wisdom of existential thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, who explored the concept of "absurdity" in the face of human mortality. According to Sartre, life is inherently meaningless and absurd, and it is up to each individual to create their own sense of purpose and meaning in a universe devoid of inherent significance. Similarly, Camus argued that the absurdity of human existence lies in the tension between our desire for meaning and the indifference of the universe to our existence. In embracing the absurdity of life and the inevitability of death, we are free to create our own meaning and purpose, unencumbered by societal norms or external expectations.

Furthermore, the experience of mortality can also prompt us to contemplate the idea of service and surrender in relation to our human existence. In acknowledging our mortality, we are reminded of our fundamental interconnectedness and interdependence with others, and the importance of serving a higher purpose beyond our individual desires and ambitions. As the American psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, "The fully developed human being... is a person who is living creatively, anxiously, and dangerously, engulfed in the urgent existence of his own vitality, fate, and luck, and at the same time dedicated to the great game of bringing the life of many others into fulfillment."

This idea of service and surrender speaks to the profound responsibility we bear as mortal beings to contribute to the greater good and to leave a positive impact on the world around us. By surrendering our egos and embracing our interconnectedness with all of humanity, we can transcend our individual fears of death and find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in service to others.

In conclusion, the acceptance of our mortality is a powerful and transformative experience that can shape our perspectives on life, purpose, and self-awareness. By embracing the transient nature of our existence and confronting the inevitability of death, we are empowered to live with greater intention, gratitude, and authenticity. Through introspection, contemplation, and service to others, we can find meaning and purpose in the face of mortality, and embrace the fullness of our human experience with courage and grace. Let us heed the words of the Greek philosopher Epicurus, who said, "Death does not concern us, because as long as we exist, death is not here. And when it does come, we no longer exist." May we live our lives with awareness, purpose, and love, knowing that our mortal existence is but a fleeting moment in the vast expanse of eternity.