Tuesday's With Morrie By Mitch Albom

Introduction

The narrator and protagonist, Mitch Albom, is a successful sports journalist caught up in the fast-paced world of deadlines and material possessions. He learns that his beloved college professor, Morrie Schwartz, is terminally ill with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. This news prompts Mitch to reconnect with Morrie and rebuild their relationship.

The Reunion

Mitch visits Morrie after many years. He is struck by Morrie’s frail condition due to ALS but also by his optimism and cheerfulness. Morrie reminds Mitch that material wealth dominates society, but true fulfillment lies in love, purpose, and relationships.

The Curriculum

Morrie assigns Mitch a new kind of “class” — a curriculum of life. Mitch begins visiting Morrie every Tuesday, and their conversations become a ritual. Together they explore universal themes: love, aging, forgiveness, death, and the meaning of relationships. Through this, Mitch begins questioning his own values and priorities.

The First Tuesday – The World

Morrie and Mitch discuss the world around them. Morrie stresses that most people live superficially, caring little about deeper truths. From his illness, he has learned the greatest lesson: “Love is the only rational act.”

Audiovisual

Morrie critiques the impact of media and technology. While it connects people digitally, it has created a culture of disconnection and superficiality. He advises Mitch to step away from constant noise, reflect inwardly, and seek silence and meaning.

The Professor’s Past

Morrie shares his personal stories and regrets. He once dreamed of being a musician but chose teaching instead, which became his true calling. He emphasizes to Mitch that love and human connections outweigh achievements or possessions. He encourages Mitch to pursue his dreams and live purposefully.

The Fourth Tuesday – On Death

Morrie’s health declines significantly. Despite his physical struggles, he teaches Mitch about mortality and the need to make peace with death. He urges him to find joy in small moments and never take life for granted.

The Fifth Tuesday – On Emotions

They discuss society’s stigma against vulnerability. Morrie explains that embracing emotions — even painful ones — is essential for healing. He encourages acts of kindness and compassion, showing Mitch that happiness comes from helping others and building meaningful connections.

The Eighth Tuesday – On Money

Morrie critiques society’s obsession with wealth. He explains that material goods never truly satisfy. Instead, he advises Mitch to:

1. Devote yourself to loving others.
2. Devote yourself to your community.
3. Devote yourself to creating something with meaning.

The Tenth Tuesday – On Marriage

Mitch brings his wife, Janine, to meet Morrie. Morrie highlights the importance of respect, commitment, and love in marriage. He believes many people today avoid deep commitment, but without it, life lacks depth. Marriage, he insists, can bring profound happiness and shared strength through both light and dark times.

The Twelfth Tuesday – On Forgiveness

Morrie teaches the healing power of forgiveness — both toward others and oneself. He warns against holding grudges and bitterness, emphasizing that letting go leads to peace and freedom.

The Last Tuesday – The Goodbye

Mitch visits Morrie for their final meeting. Morrie is bedridden, unable to move, but his spirit remains unshaken. Mitch holds his hand, reflecting on all that he has learned. Morrie passes peacefully soon after, leaving Mitch with gratitude and sorrow.

Epilogue

Mitch reflects on Morrie’s teachings and the changes he has made in his own life. He recognizes that their Tuesdays together were not only a gift but also a reminder that life is fleeting, and the only way to live fully is with intention, love, and connection.