Mozart’s last letter to his father

…now I hear that you are really ill! I need not tell you how much I’m longing to hear 
some reassuring news from you yourself. And indeed, I confidently expect such news, 
although I have made it a habit to prepare for the worst in all affairs of life. 

As death is, if we think about it soberly, the ultimate purpose of our life, I have formed during the last few years such close relations with this best and truest friend of mankind, that his image is no longer terrifying to me but is indeed very soothing and consoling! And I thank God for graciously granting me the opportunity (you know what I mean) of learning that death is the Key that unlocks the door to our true happiness. I never lie down at night without reflecting that—young as I am—I may not live to see another day. Yet no one of all my acquaintances could say that in my company I am morose or disgruntled. For this blessing I daily thank my Creator and wish with all my heart that each one of my fellow creatures could enjoy it.