Some people die at 25 and aren’t buried until 75.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This thought-provoking quote serves as a cautionary reminder to live life to its fullest and not to let our dreams, passions, or curiosity fade away as we grow older. It suggests that some individuals may experience a "spiritual death" early in life, where they abandon their aspirations and settle into a monotonous, unfulfilling existence. Despite living on for many years, their inner spark has been extinguished, leading to a lack of true vitality or purpose. This quote urges us to stay true to ourselves, to chase our dreams, and to continually nurture our sense of wonder and passion, ensuring that we remain "alive" in every sense of the word throughout our entire lives.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Some people die at 25 and aren't buried until 75." was said by Benjamin Franklin (Bio / Quotes). Benjamin Franklin was an American statesman, writer, and inventor who played a key role in the founding of the United States.
What's the quote's message?
The quote conveys a profound and somewhat melancholic message about the essence of living versus simply existing. It isn't a literal reflection on death and longevity, but rather a metaphorical comment on the spirit of life and how some individuals can lose it at a young age, and subsequently spend the rest of their lives in a state of emotional or intellectual stagnation. When it says "die at 25", it doesn't imply physical death; instead, it refers to the death of curiosity, ambition, hope, and personal growth that can occur when we allow ourselves to be consumed by routine, fear, complacency or societal expectations. It's about the metaphorical death of the inner self that thrives on learning, exploration, and experience. The "buried until 75" part signifies the physical death, suggesting that while the body might continue to age and survive, the soul or the essence of what makes us truly alive—our dreams, passions, and aspirations—could have been long extinguished. The quote is a call to action, urging us to keep our spirits alive, to continually seek growth, embrace change, and to live life in its true sense, beyond just biological existence. It's a reminder to break free from the norms and limitations that dampen our spirits, and to live life with purpose, curiosity, and passion until our very last breath.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that illustrates the message of the quote "Some people die at 25 and aren't buried until 75" is the life of Vincent van Gogh, the renowned Dutch painter. Van Gogh's artistic talents were not recognized or appreciated during his lifetime, and he struggled with mental health issues and financial difficulties. He created numerous paintings, including famous works like "Starry Night" and "Sunflowers," but only sold a single painting during his lifetime.
Van Gogh's unconventional and emotionally charged artistic style did not resonate with the mainstream art world of his time, and he faced rejection and criticism. He experienced periods of despair, loneliness, and self-doubt, which further worsened his mental health. Despite his struggles, he continued to paint prolifically, pouring his emotions onto the canvas.
Sadly, van Gogh's life ended tragically when he died by suicide at the age of 37. It was only after his death that his work gained recognition and appreciation. His paintings became some of the most celebrated and valuable artworks in history, influencing generations of artists and leaving a profound impact on the art world.
This example demonstrates the message of the quote because van Gogh's artistic genius and the value of his work were not fully realized until long after his death. He was metaphorically "buried" by the lack of recognition and understanding he faced during his lifetime. It was only later that his talent and contributions were truly appreciated, and he was metaphorically "resurrected" in the eyes of the world. Van Gogh's story serves as a poignant reminder that external validation and societal recognition don't always align with an individual's true worth or potential.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
The quote "Some people die at 25 and aren't buried until 75" by Benjamin Franklin reflects the idea that some individuals live life without truly experiencing its full potential or pursuing their passions and dreams. In a real-life scenario, this quote can serve as a reminder and motivation to live a fulfilling and purposeful life:
1. Embrace Adventure and Take Risks: Avoid living a stagnant and unfulfilled life by stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Take risks and pursue your passions, even if it means overcoming challenges and uncertainties.
2. Set Meaningful Goals: Define your life goals and aspirations, both short-term and long-term. Having clear objectives can help guide your actions and decisions, ensuring you are actively working towards a purposeful life.
3. Prioritize Personal Growth: Continuously seek opportunities for self-improvement and personal growth. Lifelong learning, whether through formal education or personal exploration, can enrich your life and keep your mind engaged.
4. Follow Your Passion: Identify what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Whether it's a hobby, a career path, or a cause you believe in, pursuing your passion can give your life a sense of purpose and drive.
5. Cultivate Positive Relationships: Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Healthy and positive relationships can provide encouragement and motivate you to strive for a more meaningful life.
6. Live in the Present: Avoid simply going through the motions without fully engaging in life. Practice mindfulness and be present in the moment, appreciating the little joys and experiences that contribute to a fulfilling life.
7. Overcome Fear and Limitations: Don't let fear or self-doubt hold you back. Challenge limiting beliefs and embrace opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
8. Embrace Change: Be open to change and adaptability. Life is dynamic, and embracing change can lead to new opportunities and personal development.
9. Make a Difference: Engage in activities that contribute to the greater good. Volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or making a positive impact on your community can give your life deeper meaning.
10. Appreciate Time: Recognize the value of time and use it wisely. Avoid wasting precious moments and seize opportunities to live a purpose-driven life.
In summary, the quote "Some people die at 25 and aren't buried until 75" serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest and avoid simply existing without purpose or passion. By embracing adventure, setting meaningful goals, following your passions, and cultivating positive relationships, you can create a life that is fulfilling, purposeful, and truly worth living.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
