Tuesdays with Morrie

Morrie, a beloved sociology professor from Brandeis University, is diagnosed with an incurable disease called ALS, a rare neurodegenerative condition. But instead of succumbing to self-pity, Morrie chooses to embrace life with open arms. As his body slowly deteriorates, his spirit only grows stronger. He finds beauty in the simplest of things and becomes even more optimistic about life. Determined to help others facing similar struggles, Morrie begins sharing his insights to ease the mental burden of those suffering.

His story catches the public eye when he is interviewed on the popular American TV show Nightline. The episode becomes a hit, and Morrie’s warmth and wisdom touch millions. Among those moved is Mitch Albom, one of Morrie’s former students, who is shocked to see his beloved professor after so many years—and even more surprised by Morrie's unwavering positivity. Overcome with emotion, Mitch rushes to reconnect.

During his time at Brandeis, Morrie was more than just a professor to Mitch—he was a mentor and friend. Morrie’s empathetic nature and ability to connect deeply with others made him a favorite among students. Although Mitch had been somewhat reserved and lethargic in college, Morrie’s kindness helped bring out the best in him. They bonded closely, with Morrie even helping Mitch complete his thesis. But after graduation, life took Mitch away. Caught in the race for wealth and career success, he lost touch with his old mentor.

The Nightline show reignited their bond. When Mitch visits Morrie, he finds a man who is physically weak but emotionally vibrant. Morrie greets him joyfully from his wheelchair, still radiating the same warmth and enthusiasm as in his university days. Mitch is deeply moved by Morrie's energy and decides to visit him regularly. They agree to meet every Tuesday—just like they used to in college.

There are 14 Tuesdays mentioned in the book, each one dedicated to a meaningful topic: world affairs, regrets, death, family, emotions, money, love, marriage, culture, forgiveness, and more. Through these deep conversations, Tuesdays with Morrie becomes a profound and emotional journey between a dying professor and his student—full of timeless wisdom.

One of the standout lessons Morrie shared was about trust. In one of his college classes, he gave students an exercise: stand facing away from a partner and fall backward, trusting the other person to catch them. Most students hesitated, except one girl who closed her eyes and fell completely, trusting her partner. Morrie praised her and said, “If you're ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them too—even when you're in the dark, even when you're falling.”

Another powerful idea Morrie spoke about was detachment. Detachment doesn’t mean withdrawing from the world. Instead, it means fully experiencing emotions and letting them pass through you without being overwhelmed. This practice allows a deeper understanding of oneself and others.

 Morrie also challenged the materialistic mindset. He believed that society manipulates us into thinking “more is good.” But real satisfaction, he said, doesn’t come from accumulating things—it comes from giving. “Giving is living,” he often repeated.

One of Morrie’s greatest gifts was his ability to be fully present. When people came to visit and share their worries, he listened intently and wholeheartedly. This simple act of being there made a profound difference to those around him. Morrie understood that sometimes, what people need most is someone who genuinely listens.

As he neared the end of his life, Morrie said, “Death ends a life, not a relationship.” His message was clear: the love, care, and kindness we share live on in the hearts of those we touch.

Tuesdays with Morrie is not just a book—it’s a mirror that reflects what truly matters in life. It teaches us to slow down, be present, value relationships, and find joy in giving. Through the simple yet powerful conversations between Morrie and Mitch, we are reminded of life’s ultimate truths.

Do give it a read—it just might change the way you look at life.