It is not impermanence that makes us suffer. What makes us suffer is wanting things to be permanent when they are not. – Nhat Hanh
When we are spending time with loved ones or performing our favorite activity, we oftentimes never want the moment to end. It’s natural to seek a sense of stability and forever-ness in the activities that bring us joy. Conversely, when we undergo large life changes, we tend to fill up with hesitancy and uneasiness. Change and uncertainty can undoubtedly feel stressful and scary. The start (and end) of a new job, relationship, or project might evoke feelings of stress or worry as we grasp onto what we know, what’s comfortable. This is because to recognize that everything that begins must end is to acknowledge our mortality, which isn’t a warm, gentle or fuzzy feeling.
There is great wisdom in a view that everything is constantly changing. Nothing lasts forever. And this isn’t just true for human lives. It’s a reality that permeates every corner of the Universe. Today, the most vibrant flower in the garden. Tomorrow, food for the soil. Today, a shining sun. Tomorrow, rainclouds and thunderstorms.
It’s understandable to fear change, but there is so much to be gained by accepting impermanence. Roll with it. See the beauty in it. It’s only because life ends that our years on this earth are so precious.
Mindfulness allows us to see that change is never painful, it’s our resistance to change that is painful. By accepting that everything is constantly changing, we open to a beautiful reality and find deeper fulfillment in our lives. Since everything we see around us will one day be gone, it is essential we appreciate every moment.
Humans are not marvelous, creative, caring, compassionate creatures despite our short time here on earth. We are marvelous, creative, caring, compassionate creatures because of our short time here on earth. Let that sink in…
Enjoy what comes of today!
