"Perfection of character is this: to live each day as if it were your last, without frenzy, without apathy, without pretense." — Marcus Aurelius

I'm sure this is a quote you have heard before, or at least the rendering of it— "live every day like it's your last." Maybe you live by these words and hold them true to your heart. But I think this quote is absurd, and let me tell you why.

If I were to take this quote very seriously and actually live every day like it was my last, I think I would be pretty miserable. Knowing that the end is near, how would I even be able to enjoy myself?

That being said, I realize these words are not meant to be taken to that extent. But I think it's important to note that these words should be taken very seriously. Basically, this quote is saying that you should live your everyday life in the terms of death— to be content in every decision you make because at any moment you could keel over and die.

How unrealistic.

Why would anyone want to live a life that way?

Personally, I find this dehumanizing. People are supposed to make mistakes, be unhappy, and be imperfect because that is a part of life. Living up to these words is a chore. Sure, of course, we all wish our lives to be absolutely amazing and unforgettable, we all want to leave our "mark."

But we also need days of normalcy. We need days that make us appreciate the good ones even more. Without this, then "living every day like your last," isn't actually significant at all.

Don't let these words become a justification for your actions.

That is another problem with this quote. Often times, we justify our unfavorable actions with these words, with the idea that we only have one life so why not be rebellious and do what we want while we can. I am all for the idea of being spontaneous and living life to the absolute fullest, but own up to your actions and mistakes. Realize that your "fun" might result in consequences.

I think it's important to cherish life in every aspect. Appreciate the days of sadness and anger because they are a lesson, recognize that a rainy day spent watching movies is a good day, and be grateful for the small moments with friends and family— the ones you never intended on happening.

Living each day like your last shouldn't be a way to live life, focus on yourself and the small things because they will make your life most memorable.