When I’m Gone

The Humanist lyrics of Phil Ochs

One of my favorite songs is “When I’m Gone by Phil Ochs.

If you haven’t acquainted yourself with his music and you are a Humanist, I urge you to seek his music out.

When I’m Gone is from his “There But for Fortune” album.

The song is about accepting mortality and deciding to make a difference while you’re still alive.

I can’t live proud enough to die when I’m gone, so I guess I’ll have to do it while I’m here.

This single sentiment is at the heart of my Humanism and at the heart of other Humanists I know.

Accepting death does not have to lead to depression.

It can be empowering if you let it.