It is not death that a man should fear, but never beginning to live.
In the face of plague and war, Marcus reflected on mortality — not to fear it, but to prioritise what matters. He saw too many people wasting their lives chasing status or approval, forgetting the shortness of time. His reminder was to wake up — and truly live.
Let death sharpen your focus, not dull your courage.
"Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose."