# Death and the Trivial By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2023-10-12 In the face of death, everything becomes trivial. For example, when one is at an immediate and known risk of dying, does one's asshole manager matter? Indeed, it does not. The idea of a definitive end creates two responses in humans. One is to pretend that the end is never coming. In this situation, nothing ever becomes trivial, and everything is essential. Not only is this exhausting, but it creates chaos and stress that likely quickens the inevitable ending of everything. This behavior plays out in many corners of human existence. In organizations, these eternal optimists endlessly focus on, critique, and manipulate everything to support the mission. In society, zealots focus on shaming others into behaving correctly according to their endless values. In short, if there is never an end, one has infinite time to fight for their truth that gives them meaning. But, when death and the end come knocking, this will all seem trivial. The other response is to sincerely acknowledge that the end creates a situation where one questions the meaning of one's existence. If it all ends tomorrow, and that makes endless meaninglessness, what is the point of one's life? Here lies existential dread. In this situation, nothing matters. Not only is this depressing, but it creates stagnation and apathy that further spreads the natural state and depth of human suffering. Why fight for a cause? Why help someone else? It doesn't matter. Indeed, neither response to the evitable end is optimal. One is oppressive, and the other is depressive. To move forward, one must acknowledge the trivial end but find their meaning in the acknowledged trivial. Here, we'll find a surprisingly caring and progressive society concerning the elimination of unnecessary human suffering. This comes from a conclusion rooted in collective solidarity of the trivial. It's truly something we all have in common if one chooses to acknowledge the truth about endings and beginnings. #### Related Items [[Death]] [[Existential]] [[Trivial]] [[Solidarity]] [[Society]] [[Philosophy]] [[Life]] [[Purpose]]