Amor fati

Travis Knowlton LCSW
2 min readApr 10, 2023

Amor fati is a Latin phrase that translates to "love of fate" or "love of one's fate." It is a philosophical concept that originated with the Stoic philosophers and has been embraced by other thinkers, including Friedrich Nietzsche.

Amor fati involves accepting one's current situation, even if it is difficult or painful, and embracing it as an opportunity for growth and learning. It means taking responsibility for one's life and choices rather than blaming outside circumstances.

In Nietzsche's philosophy, amor fati is a way of affirming life in its totality, including the good and the bad. It involves embracing the inevitability of suffering and using it as a personal transformation.

The concept of amor fati is often associated with resilience and a positive attitude toward life. It can be seen as a way of transcending the limitations of one's circumstances and finding meaning and purpose in even the most difficult situations.

Memento mori is a philosophical concept that has been embraced by various cultures throughout history. It is meant to remind individuals of the inevitability of death and the impermanence of life. By confronting the reality of death, individuals are encouraged to live more fully and with greater intention.

In art, memento mori is often depicted through symbols such as skulls, hourglasses, or wilted flowers, which serve to remind of life’s fleeting nature and some religious traditions, it is also associated with the concept of judgment and the need to prepare oneself for the afterlife.

Memento mori can be seen as cultivating a sense of humility, gratitude, and purpose in life. It encourages individuals to focus on what is truly important and to live with a greater awareness of their mortality.

-Travis Knowlton

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Travis Knowlton LCSW

I'm a husband, father, veteran, and licensed clinical social worker that is here to enjoy and share!