Everyone dies alone.

No matter how loved and cherished we may be in life, the moment of our demise arrives at some point. An unavoidable cold, hard truth.

For years, this prospect was daunting and terrifying to me. The thought of someone being alone in their final moments, with no one to hold the hand or offer words of comfort is overwhelming.

However, there’s a strange sort of appeal.

In this world of chaos, such idea of solitude seems like a welcome respite. No more dealing with the constant barrage of stimuli that assault us on a daily basis. No more worrying about the judgments and expectations of others. Finally free to be completely alone, without interference or outside influence, without the cognitive load.

Now some of you will argue that as social creatures, even the most reclusive among us crave connection & companionship at some level - especially in the final. Yes, the idea of facing the end of our lives without the support and comfort of those we love can be deeply unsettling.

Yet, there’s one major fact: Death is an inevitability that we all must confront. Whether we are surrounded by loved ones or utterly alone, the end will come. In the face of this certainty, perhaps it is the acceptance of our solitude that ultimately brings us the most peace.

What’s more, the thought of dying alone is so strong (or noble) that it serves as a reminder to cherish the connections we have with others and to make the most of the time we have left. In death, we may be alone, but it is the relationships and experiences we have in life that give it meaning. I will carry with me the memories of the people and experiences that have shaped my life. In those memories, I will find a sense of connection and belonging that will sustain me until the very end.

So yes, that’s the only solution I have. I am reassured by the knowledge that even in death, I will be free from the hustle and bustle of the world. I will be able to let go and embrace the solitude that awaits us all. Having the realization of solitude being the only true belonging in those quiet moments, stripped of the distractions and noise of the world… we may find a peace and acceptance that has eluded us in life.

Oh, one more thing.

Everyone dies alone.

But if you mean something to someone… if you help someone… or loved someone… if even a single person remembers you… then maybe… maybe you never really die at all.

There’s no peace, huh. Enjoy the life.