There is the famous conversation between the Yaksha and Yudhishthira of the Mahabharata. One of the questions posed by the Yaksha was: ‘What is the most wonderful fact in this world?’, to which Yudhishthira answers, ‘We see our fellow-beings every moment falling off around us; but those that are left behind think that they will never die. This is the most curious fact: in the face of death, none believes he will die!’
The conversation between the Yaksha and Yudhishthira from
the Mahabharata highlights a profound observation about human nature and the
perception of mortality. Yudhishthira's response captures a fundamental truth:
despite the inevitability of death and the constant reminder of mortality
through the passing of others, people often live as if death does not apply to
them personally.
This observation reflects the paradox of human psychology –
the tendency to acknowledge mortality intellectually but to distance oneself
emotionally from its reality. It's a fascinating aspect of the human condition
that despite the evidence of mortality all around us, we often maintain a sense
of invincibility or denial when it comes to our own mortality.
The beauty of this observation lies in its universality.
Regardless of culture, time period, or individual circumstances, humans tend to
grapple with the same existential questions and struggles with mortality.
Recognizing this fact can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our
place in the world, fostering empathy, humility, and a greater appreciation for
life and the time we have.