Final

As human beings, we all have a desire to express ourselves, to have our thoughts, opinions, and beliefs heard and understood before we reach the end of our lives. We want to make the most of our time on Earth, to leave behind a lasting impression that will be remembered long after we are gone.

And so, it is no wonder that our final words hold a fascination for many of us. We hang on to the last words spoken by our loved ones, famous historical figures, and even strangers who have touched our lives in small ways.

But why do final words matter so much? After all, they are just a few sentences spoken in the last moments of a person’s life. The truth is, there are many reasons why final words can leave such a lasting impact.

Firstly, they provide closure. When someone we love passes away, we are left with a sense of incompleteness, of unfinished business. We may be left with thoughts of what could have been, if only we had said or done something differently. Final words provide a sense of finality, a resolution to any unresolved issues.

Secondly, they offer insight into a person’s character. Final words can reveal a person’s deepest thoughts and beliefs, and can give us a glimpse into what mattered most to them. They can also provide context to a person’s life, giving us a better understanding of their motivations and actions.

Thirdly, final words can inspire us. When we hear the wise, poignant, or courageous last words of others, we may find ourselves moved to live our lives differently. We may be inspired to be more compassionate, more courageous, or more introspective.

One of the best-known examples of impactful final words comes from Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “I’ve been to the mountaintop…I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.”

These words, spoken the night before his assassination, showed the depth of King’s commitment to the civil rights movement, and inspired many to continue his work in his absence.

Final words can also be deeply personal, and carry meaning that may not be apparent to those outside of a particular situation. For example, the last words spoken between two lovers may be heartfelt and intimate, and may hold a special significance to them.

But final words can be meaningful even in less dramatic situations. In everyday life, we may be given the opportunity to have a final say during a disagreement or argument. Choosing our words carefully in these moments can leave a lasting impression on those around us, and can set the tone for future interactions.

In closing, final words matter because they provide closure, offer insight into a person’s character, and can inspire us to make changes in our own lives. Whether we are saying goodbye to a loved one or ending a difficult conversation, choosing our words wisely can have a profound impact on ourselves and those around us.