Disease generally begins that equality which death completes

Disease generally begins that equality which death completes

Samuel Johnson, the renowned English writer and lexicographer, once famously said, "Disease generally begins that equality which death completes." This profound statement speaks to the universal truth that illness is a great equalizer, affecting people from all walks of life regardless of their social status, wealth, or power. In the context of Johnson's own life and work, this quote takes on added significance.

Johnson himself was no stranger to illness and suffering. Throughout his life, he battled various physical and mental health issues, including scrofula, a form of tuberculosis that left him scarred and disfigured. Despite his struggles, Johnson remained resilient and continued to pursue his literary ambitions with unwavering determination.

In his famous work, "The Vanity of Human Wishes," Johnson explores the fleeting nature of human life and the inevitability of death. He reflects on the futility of worldly pursuits and the ultimate futility of trying to escape the grasp of mortality. Disease, in Johnson's view, serves as a stark reminder of our own mortality and the fragility of human existence.

Johnson's quote also speaks to the idea of equality in death. No matter how rich or powerful a person may be in life, they are ultimately brought low by the ravages of disease and death. In the face of illness, all distinctions of wealth, status, and power fade away, leaving only the stark reality of our shared humanity.

In today's world, Johnson's words continue to resonate as we grapple with the ongoing challenges of disease and illness. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has highlighted the ways in which disease can impact individuals and communities on a global scale, regardless of their background or circumstances. In the face of such challenges, Johnson's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the need for compassion, empathy, and solidarity in the face of adversity.