A Poetic Reflection on Mortality and Meaning: Lessons from a 23-Year-Old Mind...

"I am 23 and I am dying,

Is there anyone who isn't crying.

It is small though, I want to live more,

You have my respect from the core.

Let's come to the lesson that you want my advice,

I will try to cover all with precise.

Walk after eat, Run after beat,

Follow your passion don't blow the heat,

Help others, but not cheat.

Become lazy coz it's too hazy,

Take it simple don't get crazy.

Don't lost feel your occurance,

Burn muscles and see the difference.

She is a lady like a men,

Don't treat her like a hen.

Your choices your decisions your life,

Don't blame them keep away the knife.

I was writing answer this rhyme is an accident,

After reading this many will loose their temperament.

My English is worse it may be a curse

Many will give advise some good and some rare,

I will only take few coz rest I don't care....."

Human life, fleeting yet profound, often finds its most genuine expression in moments of crisis. These moments, while deeply personal, can hold universal truths that resonate across the boundaries of age, geography, and culture. In the poetic musings of a 23-year-old confronting mortality, we uncover an intricate psychological tapestry—one that weaves together despair, resilience, humor, and a profound yearning for life’s essence.

This article explores these reflections through a psychological lens, dissecting the layers of thought, emotion, and intention embedded within the verses. The poem is not merely a narrative about dying young; it is a manifesto for living fully, framed by the insights of a mind grappling with the ultimate question: how do we find meaning in the time we are given?

Mortality: The Shadow That Sharpens the Light

"I am 23 and I am dying, Is there anyone who isn't crying." These opening lines are a stark confrontation with the fragility of life. From a psychological perspective, such acknowledgment of mortality often triggers a phenomenon known as mortality salience—a heightened awareness of death that forces individuals to re-evaluate their priorities, values, and purpose.

For the poet, this awareness does not devolve into despair; instead, it serves as a catalyst for reflection. The lines suggest not just sorrow for a life potentially cut short but also an acute awareness of the ripple effects—how personal struggles reverberate through family, friends, and society at large. Psychologically, this represents a shift from self-centered concerns to a broader, more empathetic worldview.

Gratitude and Resilience in Adversity

"It is small though, I want to live more, You have my respect from the core." Gratitude, as expressed here, is a psychological cornerstone of resilience. Research has shown that gratitude fosters mental well-being, even in the face of life’s most harrowing challenges. The poet’s acknowledgment of the beauty in life, despite its brevity, serves as a powerful reminder that gratitude is not about the absence of pain but about finding meaning within it.

This sense of resilience is further bolstered by the poet’s desire to impart wisdom—advice distilled from their own experiences. Sharing lessons is, in itself, a form of existential coping, a way to create a legacy that endures beyond one’s physical existence.

The Power of Simplicity and Routine

"Walk after eat, Run after beat, Follow your passion don’t blow the heat." These lines advocate for simplicity, balance, and routine—psychological principles that underpin mental health. Walking after meals or engaging in regular physical activity is not just a nod to physical well-being but also to the mental clarity that such practices bring.

The advice to "follow your passion" aligns with the concept of self-determination theory, which emphasizes the importance of autonomy and pursuing intrinsic goals for psychological fulfillment. By encouraging others to pursue their passions while avoiding burnout, the poet underscores the need for balance—a message particularly relevant in a world increasingly defined by stress and overwork.

Compassion Without Self-Betrayal

"Help others, but not cheat." These words reflect a nuanced understanding of compassion. Psychologically, helping others fosters a sense of purpose and connection, both of which are vital for mental health. However, the caution against "cheating" suggests an awareness of boundaries—an understanding that true compassion does not require self-sacrifice to the point of personal harm.

This balance between altruism and self-preservation is a cornerstone of healthy relationships. It is a reminder that while kindness is essential, it must be tempered with self-respect and integrity.

Breaking Gender Stereotypes

"She is a lady like a men, Don’t treat her like a hen." This powerful couplet challenges traditional gender roles and calls for equality and respect. From a psychological perspective, breaking stereotypes is critical for fostering healthier societal dynamics. The poet’s insistence on treating women with dignity reflects a progressive mindset, one that seeks to dismantle patriarchal norms and promote mutual respect.

The phrase "like a men" may appear linguistically imperfect, but its intent is clear: to recognize women as equals, capable of strength, independence, and leadership. This is a call for psychological growth—not just on an individual level but as a collective society.

Accountability and Mental Health

"Your choices your decisions your life, Don’t blame them keep away the knife." These lines delve into the realm of personal responsibility and mental health. The poet emphasizes the importance of owning one’s choices rather than externalizing blame—a principle central to cognitive-behavioral therapy. This mindset fosters a sense of control over one’s life, which is crucial for psychological well-being.

The plea to "keep away the knife" speaks directly to mental health struggles, particularly self-harm and suicidal ideation. By addressing this topic openly, the poet breaks the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging readers to seek help and find strength in community and purpose.

Humor as a Coping Mechanism

"My English is worse it may be a curse." Amidst the weighty themes of mortality and purpose, the poet’s humor shines through. This self-deprecating line serves as a psychological coping mechanism, diffusing tension and providing a moment of levity. Humor, even in dark times, is a powerful tool for resilience, allowing individuals to process pain without being consumed by it.

A Manifesto for Meaningful Living

The poem’s closing lines—"Many will give advise some good and some rare, I will only take few coz rest I don’t care"—underscore the importance of discernment. The poet recognizes that not all advice is equal and that true wisdom comes from within. This is a call to live authentically, guided by one’s own values rather than external pressures.

The poet’s reflections, though deeply personal, resonate universally. They remind us that life is not measured in years but in the depth of our experiences and the connections we foster. By sharing their journey, the poet has given us a gift—a reminder to live fully, love deeply, and approach each day with gratitude and purpose.

A Legacy of Lessons

This 23-year-old’s words transcend the boundaries of age, illness, and circumstance. They offer a psychological roadmap for navigating life’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, resilience, compassion, and authenticity. As readers, we are invited to reflect on our own lives, to find meaning in the mundane, and to approach each day with the same courage and clarity that the poet embodies.

In their vulnerability, the poet has created a legacy—one that challenges us to confront our mortality, embrace our humanity, and live with intention. Their message is clear: life, no matter how brief, is an opportunity to grow, connect, and make a difference. Let us not squander it.