This Life Is Short, So Live It

Graphic © InspirationPowerBoost.com (with permission)

“This life is short, so live it.
True love is rare, so grab it.
Anger is hurtful, so let it go.
Fear stops you doing, so face it.
Friends support you, so cherish them.”

Embracing the Essence of Life

Life, with its fleeting moments and transient nature, beckons us to embrace every second. This quote encapsulates the essence of living fully, loving deeply, and letting go of negativity. It reminds us of the impermanence of life and the importance of cherishing genuine connections. By acknowledging the brevity of our existence, we can prioritize what truly matters, be it love, friendship, or personal growth. Letting go of anger and facing our fears head-on allows us to live without regrets, making the most of the time we have.

Historical Anecdote: The Tale of Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great, one of history’s most renowned conquerors, could be said to epitomize the above quote. Born in 356 BCE in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia, Alexander the Great was destined for greatness from a young age. Tutored by the renowned philosopher Aristotle (how’s that for a head start in life?) Alexander was instilled with a passion for knowledge, culture, and military strategy.

His father, King Philip II of Macedonia, laid the groundwork for Alexander’s future conquests by unifying most of the city-states of mainland Greece under Macedonian hegemony.

Some, as they say, have greatness thrust upon them… ascending to the throne at the tender age of 20 after his father’s assassination, Alexander seized on what fate had provided him, embarking on a highly ambitious campaign to expand the Macedonian Empire. His military genius and indomitable spirit led him eastward, conquering vast territories that spanned three continents. From the annihilation of the Persian Empire to his expeditions in Egypt, where he founded the city of Alexandria, and his forays into India, Alexander’s conquests were unparalleled in the annals of history.

Yet, it wasn’t just his military prowess that set Alexander apart. He was a visionary leader who believed in the fusion of cultures. Throughout his conquests, he encouraged the blending of Macedonian and Persian cultures, a policy that led to the Hellenistic civilization. This cultural amalgamation left a lasting legacy, with Greek art, philosophy, and science flourishing in the territories Alexander had conquered, long after his demise.

Tragically, Alexander’s life was as brief as it was illustrious. At the age of 32, in the palace of Nebuchadnezzar II in Babylon, Alexander met his untimely end under mysterious circumstances. While the exact cause of his death remains a subject of debate, his legacy is undeniable. The vast empire he built, though fragmented after his death, laid the foundations for the spread of Greek culture and ideas throughout the known world, influencing civilizations for centuries to come.

Alexander once encountered a philosopher named Diogenes, who was sunbathing. Curious, Alexander asked if there was any favor he could do for him. Diogenes, without missing a beat, replied, “Yes, stand out of my sunlight.” While Alexander had vast territories, Diogenes cherished the simple pleasure of sunlight. It’s a reminder that life’s true treasures aren’t always materialistic; sometimes, they’re the intangible moments we often overlook.

The Power of Positive Relationships

In our journey through life, the relationships we forge play a pivotal role in shaping our experiences. True love, a rarity in its purest form, offers a sanctuary of understanding and trust. Friends, the family we choose, stand by us, offering support and companionship. By cherishing these bonds, we enrich our lives, adding layers of joy, comfort, and understanding. Letting go of anger and facing our fears not only enhances our personal well-being but also strengthens the bonds we share with our loved ones.

Daily Affirmation

“Today, I choose to live fully, love deeply, and cherish the bonds I share with my loved ones.”

Further Inspirational Quotes

“Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” – John Lennon

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller