Over the arc of your life, you go through many changes. As you grow and gain the benefits of hindsight over the years that pass, you realize something very important: everything is temporary. This realization is both liberating and somber, as it means that nothing lasts forever, but also that even the darkest moments will eventually pass. This brings us to the concept of impermanence and its implications for our lives.
Impermanence is a fundamental Buddhist concept that refers to the idea that everything is in a constant state of flux. Nothing remains the same, and everything is subject to change. This concept is not limited to Buddhism, and it is evident in all aspects of life. Relationships, jobs, health, and even life itself are all temporary. Accepting this fact can help us deal with the inevitability of change and find peace in the present moment.
One of the main obstacles to accepting impermanence is our attachment to things. We tend to cling to people, possessions, and ideas, and we suffer when we lose them. However, if we understand that everything is temporary, we can learn to let go of attachments and find happiness in the present moment. Letting go does not mean giving up or becoming indifferent; it means accepting that everything has a beginning and an end and enjoying the journey in between.
For me, one of the biggest attachments was where I lived and grew up. The thought of moving out of the state was paralyzing! Ultimately, I was forced into the change and while stressful in the moment, the move itself was liberating!
The impermanence of life can be a source of anxiety or a source of liberation, depending on how we approach it. If we focus on the past or worry about the future, we miss out on the present moment, which is the only moment that truly exists. By embracing the present moment and living fully, we can find joy and meaning in life, regardless of its impermanence. We can appreciate the beauty of a sunset, the laughter of a child, or the warmth of a hug without worrying about what comes next.
These days, embracing the present moment is even more challenging with the way we live our lives in a digital world. Leaving the phone on the charger and walking away to have family meals is a simple practice that can lead to more meaningful moments without distracting thoughts or digital interruptions.
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