Graphics by Michelle Pasamanero Berdonar

Death is a reality that partakes in the existence of man. Martin Heidegger, a German philosopher associated with existentialism in the 20th century, views death as an event that is always waiting to be the end of life.  This notion reminds us of the finiteness of our being. As we are given the opportunity to live in a limited time, it is right to be mindful that we have a bundle of chances to try and to experience the beauty of life. Lives must be experienced and it is by trying that we are able to learn and see the significance of our own sentience. We should act in accordance with our own desires. It is by determining what we want that we can act for its actualization. It is with our own act of finding the courage to try that we can determine the purpose of our own existence.

“The most certain possibility of existence is death, and as a result, man is forced to think about life.”

Heidegger believes that death is inevitable and that we should consider the importance of living. But what does it mean to live?

To live is to recognize the present. When you recognize the present, you take advantage of the opportunities rather than postpone everything for tomorrow. You always find the courage to try even when everything is uncertain. You defy uncertainty and believe in your own capacity to achieve your dreams. It is always a part of living: to find meaning in one’s being.

The Art of Trying

You will never be able to experience everything. When given an opportunity to experience something, do it with integrity and never fail to respect your own self. Even with the uncertainty of the results, do not be afraid to try. It is with trying that you will learn. Do not be afraid of failing. A person who fails must not see it as a mistake but as a step towards greater self-knowledge. For a person to succeed, he must double his rate of failure.

Death As a Valid Cause for Trying

As we are all bound to die, it is important to value the gift of existence. It is important to consider the things that you believe could give you happiness before your time ends. Find the courage to pursue them. When you find your purpose, you are willing to suffer just for it to be actualized.  You begin to see the beauty in eliminating negativity in your existence. Right then, you discover your purpose in life.

Find What You Are Willing to Suffer For

When you find it difficult to determine your purpose in life, look for the things that you are willing to suffer for. Pursuing your dreams will never be easy as you will encounter hardships and disappointments. If you are willing to face the problems in attaining your dreams and to find solutions to solve them, then that is your purpose.

For Heidegger, our days are numbered and it is enough reason to establish courage in pursuing things that make us happy. Always consider what your heart desires. Never be afraid of trying to reach your dreams. Don’t miss any opportunities that lie ahead of you to serve your purpose. It is okay to fail. Failing serves as evidence that you are still moving. When you are moving, you are still alive, and you are in a constant journey of trying to search for life’s meaning.

Never fear death. See it as a culminating adventure of this feat called life.