George MacDonald: 'How strange this fear of death is! We are never frightened at a sunset.'

How strange this fear of death is! We are never frightened at a sunset.

The quote by George MacDonald, "How strange this fear of death is! We are never frightened at a sunset," captures a profound truth about human nature and our relationship with mortality. At first glance, it appears straightforward and easily relatable - after all, most of us do not fear something as beautiful and natural as a sunset. However, when we delve deeper into the meaning behind MacDonald's words, we discover a philosophical concept that sheds new light on our perception of life and death.MacDonald's quote reminds us of the paradoxical and often irrational fear most individuals experience when confronted with their own mortality. How is it possible that we can witness the breathtaking beauty of a sunset with awe and admiration, yet be filled with trepidation at the mere thought of our lives coming to an end? This striking contrast prompts us to question the nature of fear and the way it shapes our perceptions.On one hand, a sunset is a transient spectacle - a fleeting moment that marks the end of the day. It symbolizes the natural cycle of life and death, as darkness and light harmoniously intertwine. We witness the sun descending below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky, and we are immersed in a serene and enchanting experience. In this moment, we are connected to the infinite rhythms of the universe, and the fear of death seems inconsequential.But when we shift our focus to the prospect of our own mortality, a different set of emotions arises. Death looms as an unknown, enveloped in mysteries that elude our comprehension. We fear the unknown, the potential loss of control, and the cessation of our existence. Unlike the sunset, death represents the absolute end, the finality of our journey. It is perhaps this certainty that instills fear within us, as we grapple with the concept of eternal oblivion or the uncertainty of an afterlife.Now, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept known as memento mori - "remember you must die." This ancient belief encourages individuals to reflect on their mortality as a means of obtaining a deeper understanding of life. Memento mori recognizes the fragility and impermanence of existence, and how this awareness can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, gratitude, and a sense of urgency to live a purposeful life.In the context of MacDonald's quote, memento mori offers an intriguing perspective. By acknowledging the inevitability of death, we can confront our fears and, in turn, appreciate life with greater fervor. When we remember that our time is limited, we become more conscious of the present moment, cherishing each experience and relationship as if it were a magnificent sunset. Memento mori invites us to cultivate a mindful awareness, similar to that which we experience when gazing at the ever-changing colors and textures painted across the evening sky.While the fear of death may always linger in the depths of our consciousness, George MacDonald's contemplation serves as a reminder that our perception of mortality is not fixed. We have the capacity to reshape our relationship with death by adopting a memento mori mentality. This philosophical concept urges us to embrace the beauty of life as we do the beauty of a sunset - with wonder, serenity, and an unwavering appreciation for each fleeting moment.In conclusion, George MacDonald's quote encapsulates the enigma of the human condition, contrasting our fear of death with our indifference towards the extraordinary beauty of a sunset. By introducing the concept of memento mori, we are prompted to reconsider our relationship with mortality and the profound impact it has on how we cherish and experience life. Let us embrace our mortality, finding solace and inspiration in the transience of our existence, and approach life with the same awe and reverence we reserve for a breathtaking sunset.