By Rachelle M.

Throughout life, death is always a controversial issue. In today’s society aging is often hidden or covered up by the vast array of technologies that are currently obtainable. Plastic surgery and all the numerous methods that reduce the effects of aging allow for an increased life span that fools people into looking and feeling younger. Outward appearance is stressed far too much in modern society, and inspirations should come from the inside rather than the surface.

Technology is in fact, taking away from the natural life cycle. Plastic surgery and Botox are a desperate cry to stop the aging process. In simplest terms, this goal can never be accomplished or achieved. Paying thousands of dollars to look glamorous on the outside is meaningless because, it is what is on the inside that really matters. A few wrinkles or laugh lines here and there do not diminish life. Death is a natural occurrence that needs to be accepted, giving all the more reason to “live life to the lees.” No one should allow anything to pass by, and when old age embarks, life does not need to be turned upside down or changed through drastic measures. Many elderly still have the get up and go to do just as much—if not more—than they once were capable of.
In the poem “Ulysses,” its hero wants to set out on yet another adventure that only echoes a hopeless plea for his unrecoverable youth.

T’is not too late to seek a newer world
Push off, and sitting well in order smite
The surrounding purpose furrows; for my purpose holds
To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths
Of all western stars, until I die.

The shallow Ulysses has to overcome his stardom and realize where he truly belongs. Penelope and Telemachus need him at home so they can lead a normal family life. They will be there to depend on and confide in, when the demons of old age continue to haunt Ulysses.
Death should be accepted for what it is. Outward appearance is stressed too much in modern society. Allow for life’s journey and inspirations to come from within, rather than from the surface. In the end, it will have more importance and meaning to all around.