The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.—Joseph Campbell
Facing mortality is stepping into the cave that scares most; it’s where humility, urgency, and gratitude converge. Recognising life’s fragility ignites purpose, sharpens values, and frees us from trivial worries. Drawing on Stoic disciplines, memento mori and premeditatio malorum, this practice invites you to live each moment fully, anchored in virtue and acceptance of change.
Core Ideas:
- Mortality awareness dissolves petty anxieties and elevates meaningful action.
- Impermanence reminds us to cherish the present and engage fully.
- Stoic practice of visualising loss builds resilience and reduces fear.
- Focusing on virtues and values, and what’s within your control, cultivates peace.
Shadow Writing Prompts
Prompt 13a: Memento Mori
Suspend distraction and sit with the truth of your finite nature. Journal how this awareness shifts your daily priorities, mindset, or relationships. How does remembering death sharpen your sense of purpose and presence?
Prompt 13b: Premeditatio Malorum
Visualise losing something you deeply value: health, a relationship, or capacity. Describe the emotions, insights, and preparedness that arise. How does this rehearsal of loss change the way you engage with that person or gift now?
Prompt 13c: Circle of Control
List three areas in your life touched by impermanence, like career, relationships, or physical vitality. For each, distinguish what lies within your control (actions, responses, habits) from what does not (others’ choices, time). How will you reallocate energy towards cultivating virtues in your control sphere?
Prompt 13d: Crafting Your Legacy
Envision the values you wish to echo beyond your lifetime: kindness, integrity, creativity. Write a brief ‘legacy declaration’ that guides your choices. Identify one daily or weekly practice that embodies this declaration, ensuring your impermanent life leaves a meaningful imprint.
Embracing impermanence isn’t morbid; it’s a radical act of love for the life you have. Step into the cave, claim your treasure, and live with fierce intention.
