""بعد قليل ستنسى كل شيء؛ وبعد قليل سينساك كل شيء.""

This quote is essentially about the fleeting nature of life and memory. It's saying that soon enough, we'll forget everything we've ever experienced, and eventually, the world will forget us too. It's a reminder of our impermanence, both in our own minds and in the greater scope of history.

Historically, this idea has been explored many times. Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and philosopher, often meditated on the transient nature of life in his writings. Life in ancient Rome was unpredictable, filled with wars, political intrigue, and disease. Reflecting on mortality and memory was a way to find peace and perspective amid the chaos. Aurelius wasn't just lamenting the passage of time; he was advocating for living a life of virtue and presence, knowing that all things are temporary.

To bring this down to earth, think about the legacy of a famous artist like Vincent Van Gogh. During his lifetime, Van Gogh sold only a few paintings and struggled with mental health issues. He was largely forgotten by society, and even he couldn’t have imagined the lasting impact he'd eventually have. Now, centuries later, his work is celebrated worldwide. But there’ll come a time when even Van Gogh’s paintings might be forgotten, just like the works of countless artists before him. It's a humbling thought, right?

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your daily life? First, don’t sweat the small stuff. The arguments, the mistakes, the embarrassing moments—they’re all just tiny blips in the grand scheme of things. If you accept that both your triumphs and your failures will eventually be forgotten, you can free yourself from a ton of anxiety. Focus on what really matters to you. Spend time with people you love, work on things you’re passionate about, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Life’s too short to play it safe all the time.

Let's imagine a scenario to bring the point home. Think about Sarah, a young woman working tirelessly at a startup. She often stays late, missing out on dinners with friends and family, aiming for that big promotion and the recognition she believes will come with it. One day, her grandmother, who she hasn't seen in months, falls ill. Sarah takes time off to visit her, and during their conversations, she realizes her grandmother can’t even recall the details of her own youth, let alone remember Sarah’s hectic work schedule. It dawns on Sarah that striving for career perfection is consuming her life’s most precious moments. She decides to re-prioritize, making a conscious effort to balance her career ambitions with moments that build lasting memories with loved ones.

The essence of this quote is not to be morbid or nihilistic, but to offer a sense of liberation and perspective. Recognize that life is a collection of moments that will fade. Embrace it. Live with intention and cherish the now—because, in the end, it’s those moments that make a life well-lived, even if they’re not remembered forever.