From: ‘How To Die: An Ancient Guide to the End of Life’ by Seneca, edited, translated, and introduced by James S. Romm:
Quote: He lives badly who does not know how to die well… He who fears death will never do anything to help the living. But he who knows that this was decreed the moment he was conceived will live by principle and at the same time will ensure, using the power of mind, that nothing comes as a surprise. (On Serenity of Mind 11.4)
Thought: As dying well is the last part of living well, one who does not live well will not suddenly know how to die well. One who fears death at every corner will become entirely selfish, unable to help others. One who knows death is inevitable will live well by being principled and prepared.