Intro
It has been a while since I last wrote in my journal. So much has happened, and yet it feels like time is slipping away from me. Lately, I've been pondering the true meaning of 'memento mori' - a Latin phrase that translates to "remember you must die." It's an eerie reminder of our mortality, but also serves as a powerful catalyst for introspection and self-reflection.
The Awakening
When I first discovered the existence of Shadows and Persona-users, my world was turned upside down. The Dark Hour revealed itself to me—an hour hidden between midnight and dawn where only those with special abilities can navigate its treacherous depths. As the protagonist of Persona 3, I bore the weighty responsibility of leading SEES (Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad) in their battle against these supernatural entities.
Embracing Mortality
In this seemingly never-ending fight against Shadows, death lurked around every corner. It became impossible to ignore our own inevitable demise—a constant companion reminding us that life is fragile and fleeting. We realized how precious each moment truly was; we had no choice but to confront our fears head-on.
Exploring Existential Questions
As we delved deeper into Tartarus—the towering labyrinth filled with countless Shadows—I found myself contemplating profound existential questions about life's purpose: Why are we here? What legacy will we leave behind? How do we make sense of such transient existence?
These inquiries weighed heavily on my mind as battles raged on within Tartarus' shadowed halls—a stark contrast between light and darkness mirroring philosophical dilemmas enveloping us all.
Struggles Within
Navigating through both literal shadows within Tartarus and metaphorical ones within ourselves proved arduous at times—challenging not just our physical prowess but also testing the limits of our emotional resilience.
The loss of comrades along this arduous journey served as a stark reminder of our own mortality. Those painful farewells etched themselves deeply into my heart, amplifying the sense of urgency to seize every precious moment life had to offer.
Bonds That Transcend Death
Yet, amidst this turmoil and despair, I discovered that bonds formed within SEES were capable of transcending death itself. These connections grew stronger with each passing day—a beacon of hope amid the encroaching darkness.
Whether it was Aigis' unwavering determination or Mitsuru's steadfast leadership, these individuals exemplified resilience in the face of adversity. Together we embraced 'memento mori,' finding solace in knowing that our lives held meaning even if they were fleeting.
The Power Within
Through battles against formidable adversaries known as Shadows—manifestations born from humanity's collective unconscious—we tapped into the power within ourselves: Personas. These manifestations personify various aspects of our personalities and grant us strength beyond measure.
As I delved deeper into Tartarus' depths alongside my comrades-in-arms, I realized that harnessing this power meant accepting both light and dark aspects residing within me—an acknowledgement that true growth comes from embracing all facets rather than denying them.
Lessons Learned
Cherishing Each Moment
The constant threat looming over us pushed me to cherish every waking moment—the laughter shared during brief respites between battles; tender moments spent connecting with fellow members outside SEES; stolen glances exchanged under moonlit skies—all became infinitely more precious when confronted by imminent mortality.
Embracing Impermanence
Life is transient—ever-changing like shifting sands beneath one's feet. Yet instead of fearing change, 'memento mori' taught me how to embrace its ephemerality fully—to find beauty in impermanence itself. No longer did endings signify loss but rather new beginnings—a chance for personal growth and transformation.
Living Authentically
In the face of death, pretenses crumbled to dust. 'Memento mori' stripped away facades and revealed our true selves—the raw vulnerability beneath carefully constructed masks.
Through my interactions with SEES members, I learned that authenticity breeds genuine connections—shared experiences forged through honesty and acceptance.
Conclusion
As my journey as Makoto Yuki reaches its inevitable end, I am no longer plagued by fear or despair. What began as a battle against Shadows became an exploration of life's deepest mysteries—a quest for meaning amidst chaos.
'Memento mori' served not just as a grim reminder but also an invitation—an opportunity to live boldly and authentically in the face of uncertainty. It taught me how fleeting moments can hold immeasurable value if we choose to embrace them fully.
And so, dear journal, I leave you now with newfound wisdom firmly etched into my heart: Life is ephemeral; it is up to us whether we let this truth enslave us in fear or empower us to live every moment wholeheartedly.