The "bookcase" is WAY, WAY too asymmetrical for me to ever consider. But what a different idea !
Of course, we have all heard of the many monks who used to sleep in their future coffin to remind them that life is too short and one must use it wisely and for repentance of sins, self-improvement in all domains, etc.
My idea is that it may be better to focus on building up one's health and stamina so that one will not have any weakness which could lead to premature death. For, as long as one is alive here, one still has the opportunity to better his spiritual state. Though, like most of my ideas !, it may not be popular, I think it works better to have a very dynamic outlook on life and put the time into developing strong willpower [the ability to say "no" to any wrong avenue] so that one will not be carried off in an untimely manner.
We have to assume, unless informed otherwise by God, that we should work on the assumption that we are to fight to stay here on earth as long as we can. Thus, we need to develop complete soundness of soul, body and a truly alert mind.
This is all vital to repel the Devil's attacks. Surely one of those varieties of attack is the plotting to get a good Orthodox Christian incapacitated in any way, so that he or she cannot pray or work on his or her own soul, let alone help others.
Anyone agree ?