But, in very truth, the funerals of such men ought to be conducted by the light of torches and wax tapers, as though they had lived but the tiniest span.
On the Shortness of Life 20.2
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the fleeting nature of life. As Seneca notes, "the funerals of such men ought to be conducted by the light of torches and wax tapers, as though they had lived but the tiniest span" (On the Shortness of Life 20.2). This passage reveals that life is brief, and many people fail to live in accordance with this reality.
This insight suggests that to live well, one must prioritize what is truly important and make the most of the time available. It encourages us to reevaluate our values and focus on living in the present, rather than getting caught up in trivial pursuits or distractions.
To apply this insight today, someone might take a step back to assess their priorities and ask themselves: "What are the things that truly matter to me, and am I allocating my time and energy accordingly?" By recognizing the shortness of life, we can cultivate a sense of urgency and intentionality, allowing us to make the most of each day and live more mindfully.
As we go about our day, we can remind ourselves that every moment counts, and that it's essential to focus on what truly adds value to our lives. By doing so, we can begin to live more intentionally, letting go of non-essential distractions and cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
What is one thing you can let go of today to make space for what truly matters?