You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.
This is one of Marcus' most powerful reminders — *memento mori*. Death is not a threat; it is clarity. It makes nonsense fall away and priorities rise. Marcus wasn't morbid — he was motivated. Knowing time is short, he spoke gently, worked diligently, and let go of pride. This is Stoicism distilled: awareness of mortality leading to presence and virtue.
When you remember death, you remember to live fully.
"Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose."