S2E5: Giving Your Death Away, Living in Light of Your Mortality + Moving From Fluid to Crystalized Intelligence
Intentional Fatherhood
Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence in Later Life
Brook explains Arthur Brooks's distinction and why shifting from skill-based achievements to wisdom matters for legacy.
In this episode, we explore the provocative idea of what it means to give your death away — to truly live in light of your mortality. Drawing from the ancient Christian practice of “memento mori” — remembering your death — we talk about how only Christianity can make sense of this uncomfortable reality through the hope of resurrection and eternal life.
We discuss what it means to build a legacy within our families, not just by passing on skills that fade, but through wisdom, blessing, and a life rooted in eternal perspective. Inspired by Arthur Brooks’ From Strength to Strength, we reflect on the shift that happens as we age — moving from fluid to crystalized intelligence. Looking to Psalm 92’s promise that the righteous “will bear fruit in old age,” we talk about becoming the kind of person who grows old and sweet rather than old and bitter, someone secure enough to bless and encourage the next generation.
This episode centers on the power of blessing — through appropriate touch, a spoken message, attaching high value, picturing a special future, and committing to fulfill it. We also talk about the role of mentorship and discipleship in passing on that blessing — how writing down words of encouragement, sharing wisdom, and investing in others becomes a way of giving your death away. We share a spoken blessing for every part of the body and reflect on the reality that legacy requires humility and the willingness to let go of ego, status, and pride.
Because ultimately, the way to life is only through death. The episode closes with a prayer from Psalm 23 — “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing” — and four tangible ways to live this out: order a memento mori, write your obituary, meditate on your death, and extend the years of your age chart.
Justin’s Embodied Bedtime Blessing:
Bless his feet, may they carry good news.
Bless his legs to go on in times of trouble.
And bless his back, may it be strong enough to bear the burdens of others.
Bless his arms to hold the lonely and his hands to do good work.
Bless his neck, would you turn his head to the poor.
Bless his ears to discern truth, his mouth to speak encouragement, and his eyes to see beauty.
Bless his mind, may he grow wise in the knowledge of you.
But above all, Lord, will you bless his heart, may he come to love you and all that you’ve made, in the right order.
Intentional Fatherhood Retreat: February 19-21, 2026 in Costa Mesa, CA
Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 23:1 + Psalm 92:12-15
Book Mentioned: From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks
Submit Questions: Send a voice recording to hello@intentionalfatherhood.org, mentioning your name and where you’re from.
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Justin Whitmel Earley: Website + Instagram
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