The black caiman, along with the American alligator, is one of the largest crocodiles in the world. This baby black caiman here has the potential to grow up to 5 to 6 meters.

Life is just that at its core—a series of potential. The challenge in life is that nothing can be guaranteed to realize all these potential.

Due to the recent outbreak of the coronavirus, some people’s immediate reaction is to horde. Masks, groceries, toiletries have been flying off the shelves. What causes these severe reactions? We know that these reactions all stem from the fear of death. Why are we so afraid of death when most people don’t even live totally? We are afraid of living and we are afraid of dying.

Even something as small and as fragile as ants, they try their very best to survive. They don’t doubt their purpose and they make the best use of the short lifespan they have.

I am not sure what terrifies you. For me, knowing that I cannot see my loved ones ever again terrifies me. Knowing that I am not there for my son when he is growing up in life scares me. Not being able to witness how the story of my loved ones plays out is lost potential for me; the potential of what could have been. What this means to me is that my fear of death is the fear of loss potential. While I am alive, what could I have done to make the world a better place than I found it?

Nothing clarifies as much as death. The understanding that nothing lasts forever creates a sense of urgency in each moment. It simplifies things and clears up the clouds of doubts. It shows us what is truly important and acts as a compass for what we do at each moment.