You only live Once

It is commonly said that human beings acquire a stronger yearning for human connections as soon as they reach the end of their lives. There seems to be a reordering of one’s priorities that ultimately relegates to the background our material longings while bringing relationships to the fore. “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a poignant memoir written by Mitch Albom that documents the lessons he learned from his former professor, Morrie Schwartz. The book explores the themes of life, death, and the power of relationships.

The story begins when Mitch Albom, a successful journalist, discovers that his beloved professor, Morrie Schwartz, is dying from ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a degenerative neurological disease. Mitch is shocked and saddened by this news, and he decides to pay Morrie a visit. What starts as a simple visit turns into a series of weekly meetings where Mitch learns valuable lessons about life from Morrie, who is still teaching him even in his last days.

Throughout the book, Mitch shares his conversations with Morrie, and we see their relationship evolve as they explore topics such as love, family, forgiveness, and the fear of death. The reader is also introduced to Morrie’s background and the events that shaped his worldview. We learn about his childhood, his family, and his career as a professor. Morrie’s insights on life are particularly compelling because they are rooted in his own experiences.

One of the main themes of the book is the idea of living a meaningful life. Morrie encourages Mitch to prioritize relationships over material possessions and to cultivate a sense of community. He argues that the most important things in life are not things at all, but rather our connections with other people. Morrie’s philosophy on life is summed up in one of the book’s most famous quotes: “Love each other or perish.”

Another theme of the book is the inevitability of death. Morrie faces his own mortality with grace and courage, and he teaches Mitch to do the same. He encourages Mitch to embrace his emotions and to allow himself to grieve. Morrie’s approach to death is not one of fear or despair, but rather one of acceptance and even gratitude. He sees his impending death as an opportunity to appreciate the present moment and to make peace with his life.

The writing style of the book is straightforward and conversational. Mitch’s storytelling is engaging and the dialogue between him and Morrie is often humorous, despite the gravity of the subject matter. The book is also relatively short, which makes it a quick and easy read.

In conclusion, “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a moving and inspiring book that offers valuable insights into the human experience. The book’s themes of love, family, and the fear of death are universal and resonate with readers of all ages. Mitch Albom’s writing is honest and heartfelt, and his relationship with Morrie is a testament to the power of human connection. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live a meaningful life.