"彼が生きている間に友情を示すことを学びましょう、彼が死んでからではなく。"

The core idea here is simple but profound: we should appreciate and cherish our friends while they're still with us, rather than waiting until they've passed away to express our feelings. It’s about valuing people in the moment and not taking their presence for granted.

This sentiment has historical roots and personal relevance. The quote comes from F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," a novel set in the Jazz Age. It was spoken by Meyer Wolfsheim, a character deeply involved in Gatsby's life. The line reflects a common theme in the book—Gatsby is admired and celebrated only after his death, while his life is filled with loneliness and unfulfilled desires. Fitzgerald’s era, marked by rapid social change and fleeting relationships, is a backdrop that underscores the need for genuine, timely appreciation.

Let's think of a real-life example. Imagine John, a beloved community member who tirelessly volunteers his time to help at local shelters. He’s always there, rain or shine. People appreciate his work, but it's often just a passing thank you or a nod of acknowledgment. When John unexpectedly passes away, the community is heartbroken. They organize memorials, fundraisers in his name, and write heartfelt tributes. It’s all well-meaning, but wouldn’t it have been more impactful if those expressions of gratitude and love had come while John was alive to feel them? If he had seen just how much his efforts meant to everyone?

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our lives? Start small. Think about the people around you—family, friends, colleagues. Make a habit of showing appreciation now. Don’t wait for a special occasion or, worse, a tragedy. Send that text to your friend just to thank them for being there. Tell your coworker you admire their dedication. Compliment your partner for the little things they do every day. These gestures don’t have to be grand; they just need to be genuine.

Here’s a relatable scenario: Imagine you're at a coffee shop with your best friend. You’re chatting about life, the latest shows on Netflix, or maybe even the news. Between sips of coffee, you think about how much this friend has been there for you—through breakups, job changes, family drama. But you’ve never really told them just how much it means to you. So, you decide to say it, right there amidst the clinking cups and hum of the espresso machine. “Hey, I just wanted to say I really appreciate how you’ve always been there for me. You’re a true friend.” It’s raw, it's real, and it’s heartfelt. You can see the surprise and warmth in their eyes—this is the kind of appreciation the quote calls for.

By consistently showing our friends that we value them, we foster deeper connections and build a stronger community. Life's unpredictability makes this approach even more important. Don't let time slip by without letting those you care about know how you feel. It’s these moments of genuine appreciation that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.

In essence, it’s about living in the present and expressing our feelings before it’s too late. The quote is a gentle reminder to cherish and celebrate the people in our lives right now, while we still have the chance. So go ahead—make that call, send that message, give that hug. Let your friends know they're valued.