"I'm Irish. I think about death all the time."

The core idea here is pretty straightforward: the person saying this—probably an Irish individual—often contemplates mortality. It’s almost like death is a constant background noise in their life. Now, why would someone feel this way? There could be a mix of cultural and personal reasons.

Historically, Ireland has a rich tapestry of stories, folklore, and history that's steeped in themes of life, death, and everything in between. Think about the Great Famine or the Troubles. These events are parts of a collective memory that might make the topic of death less taboo and more a part of everyday thinking. It’s like how some cultures celebrate the Day of the Dead, not as a morbid event, but as a way to honor and remember those who have passed.

Let’s bring in a real-life example to make this more tangible. Imagine you’re at an Irish wake. It’s not just a somber affair—there's laughter, storytelling, a bit of drinking. It’s a celebration of the person’s life. In this setting, death isn’t something to hide from; it’s something that’s acknowledged, even embraced. People talk openly about the deceased, share fond memories, and sometimes even joke about them. It's a communal way of dealing with loss that makes death a part of life, rather than an end to be feared.

So, how can you apply this way of thinking in your own life? For one, don’t shy away from the topic of death. Talk about it with your family and friends. Make plans, share your wishes, and understand theirs. It might sound heavy, but it can actually be really freeing. By acknowledging mortality, you might find yourself living more fully. Think of it as decluttering your mental space—facing the inevitable can clear the way for more meaningful living.

Let’s get into a scenario to really drive this home. Picture yourself having a cup of coffee with an older relative. They start talking about their will and funeral plans. Instead of changing the subject, you lean in. You ask them what kind of music they want at their service, or what their favorite memory is. This conversation might seem morbid at first, but as it unfolds, you find it’s actually quite beautiful. You get a deeper understanding of what’s important to them, and you walk away feeling closer than ever.

By internalizing this perspective, you can bring a sense of balance to your life. It’s like having a rainy day fund—not something you want to think about all the time, but comforting to know it’s there. So next time the thought of death crosses your mind, don’t push it away. Instead, let it remind you to call a loved one, take that trip you’ve been putting off, or just enjoy an extra moment watching the sunset. Life is fleeting, and that’s what makes it so incredibly precious.