Tombstone Inscription Contemplations: ‘I Strove So Hard!’ Why This Matters

"I struggled hard!"

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These five short words seem to perfectly capture how my life has been a hectic and somewhat haphazard journey. While the phrase "struggled hard" might initially sound messy and complicated, it actually encapsulates my dedication, effort, time, sweat, and hope. It might seem insignificant at first glance, but when you condense a long life story into just a few words, could it be any more honest?

But it's worth considering, isn't it? Who am I writing this epitaph for?

For those who will remember me after I'm gone?

I want to comfort those who have taken the time and effort to visit my grave. I want to subtly convey my gratitude for their presence. But when I write that down, I begin to worry: "Is this too heavy?" or, "Am I being too sentimental?" I even start to wonder if I have to be considerate of others even after death.

To comfort my past, present, and future self?

In truth, when I look at my tombstone, the first thing I'll see is my past, present, and future self. People tend to be harsh and unforgiving towards themselves. Thinking back on how much I've scolded myself – "Do better! Work harder! Live right!" – I honestly just want some peace after death. Still, I think my epitaph should contain something warm and comforting instead of self-reproach. Something like, "I was clumsy, but I tried my best. It's okay to rest now."

Then again, I suddenly wonder, "How long will I continue to agonize over the 'meaning' of things?" Whether my epitaph is a message for others or self-comfort, the truly important thing is how I lived and what mark I left on the world until the very end. A short epitaph might evoke more thought than a long one.

After I've fulfilled my purpose in this world, I hope that someone lost and wandering might stumble upon my resting place and smile, even for a moment. The five words, "I struggled hard!" encapsulate my daily battles against this harsh world. Sometimes, a simple, honest statement like this can offer a little courage to someone who hasn't given up yet.

Ultimately, what I want to leave behind is acknowledgement that I did my best and that it was okay, and the solace that I no longer need to push myself so hard. I think a short message that conveys genuine feelings is enough.

Now, all that remains is for me to 'perfectly' complete this phrase while I'm still alive. Like writing a book, making a movie, or adding an ending credit to a short drama. Everyone struggles while they're alive, but we also enjoy our experiences, make mistakes, and learn as we go.

What inscription would you choose?