On mortality

Thinking of mortality is often mistaken for fearing dying, and they aren't necessarily the same thing. I do believe; however, that some people live life as if they seem to believe they're immortal? Death is often called the afterlife. This is because it is believed life ends, and something different happens after it. Many civilizations for thousands of years have had beliefs with relevance to the afterlife. We have no proof of what really happens when one dies and remains permanently dead. We really do not know if life ends and then continues in a different state in another dimension. Jesus said: “In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” Many Christians believe that when they die, they will go to a dwelling place promised by Jesus. This post is about thinking about death, and not about what happens when one dies.

AI Overview on Google said the following with relevance to thinking about death.

Thinking about death is a normal part of life, but it can become a mental health concern if it's extremely distressing or interferes with your daily life:

Death anxiety: Also known as thanatophobia, this is an intense fear of death that can cause panic, dread, depression, or obsession with health. People with death anxiety may avoid dangerous situations or spend a lot of time checking for signs of illness. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): People with OCD may have obsessions about death and compulsions to seek reassurance. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is a treatment that can help people learn to accept the uncertainty of their obsessions.

                Major depression: Death can be a preoccupation for people with major depression.

 Thinking about death can also be beneficial, helping you to recognize your values and live more consciously. Here are some ways that thinking about mortality can be helpful:

                Gaining meaning

Contemplating your mortality can help you find meaning and motivation in life.

                Making conscious choices

Accepting your mortality can help you make more conscious choices in the present.

                Avoiding destructive behavior

Controlling your anxiety about death can help you avoid negative or destructive behavior. 

In closing, I simply wanted to share a brief thought on mortality. I believe I have never shared anything about it. I think many people avoid the subject altogether, especially when they are young. Although, as one ages it perhaps becomes more and more part of one’s thoughts. I do agree with the AI Overview when it said: thinking about death can also be beneficial. I hope you enjoyed reading this. Blessings!

 

References:

 https://www.artofdyingwell.org/talking-about-death/coming-terms-death/accepting-your-mortality/#:~:text=Thinking%20about%20your%20life%20ending,with%20the%20reality%20of%20death

John 14:2, NRSVUE