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Impermanence ~ nature in motion
Impermanence has its stamp on everything whether it’s manmade or a product of nature itself.
We might not be aware of it but nothing lasts because all is in a constant flux of transformation.
In fact, this stands true for all that we encounter outside ourselves as well as the things we hold at heart.
Take a minute and look around you, can you spot the worn out from the new? Do you see the difference?
Nothing stays
You may find that some things clearly bear the mark of impermanence while for others it’s too subtle.
Nonetheless things blemish with time, they change and lose their spark, no matter what we do.
It is a law of nature, one that affects us all, yet what we know as true we fail to remember.
That becomes the cause of our hardship, the source of our worry and the reason why we suffer.
The illusion of stability
“Impermanence is the truth that is right in front of you.” Dogen
Forever does not stand the test of time, be as it may we still believe it does and trust it will.
We perceive our relationships as steady, our jobs as safe, our bodies and life as long-lasting.
When the illusion of permanence fails and things breakdown we feel frustrated and distressed.
Because when it comes to the things we care about, we have a hard time accepting their inevitable end.
Denying transience doesn’t help
Our refusal to see things as they are, precarious and unstable can gives rise to negative emotions.
It creates tensions that bring about sadness and a sense of confusion, all of which can turn destructive.
These can express themselves in anger and resentment that only adds to our bewilderment and despair.
Rather than embracing the inevitable we resist, instead of moving on we dwell on our losses, we’re stuck.
Appreciate the ephemeral
“If things were not impermanent there would be no way to change and evolve.” Lama Zopa, Nicholas Ribush
Changing our attitude isn’t easy, especially when our mind is set and we’re certain things have to go ‘that way’.
Given our stubbornness, we need first to realize that the feelings attached to our situation are bound to change.
Likewise, we should recognize that our negative attitude is tied to our being uncomfortable with the new.
Being creatures of habit we have to exercise patience, sooner or later the unfamiliar will turn familiar, so soften up ?
Impermanence is good
When the present is not to our liking, all we want is change and we’re glad once our difficulties end.
We should be aware of the paradox that drives opposition, labelling this good or bad sets the tone.
Similarly, feeling trapped in certain conditions will have us fixating on our circumstances, that’s not useful.
Now remember this too is of temporary nature, time is of the essence, try to make the best of it don’t fight it.
Appreciate impermanence through mind training
“The perception of impermanence is a subject of insight meditation.” The Dalai Lama, Bhikkhu Bodhi
Our day to day can be deceptive, the monotonous nature of our routine has everything looking and feeling the same.
Dealing with the mundane serves to strengthen our belief in the stationary, when in truth there’s no such thing.
In the same way, our social circles and intimate relationships may seem so close-knit, that we deem them solid.
No wonder we have a hard time coping when people leave and have trouble adjusting to new conditions.
Mind training can help you
In order for us to appreciate impermanence we have to deliberately and systematically look for it first.
Then again the misleading appearance of steadiness and the way we normally grasp at reality obstructs our vision.
That’s why continuous effort is necessary for us keep aware of the impermanent nature of everything around us.
Combining insight meditation and on going contemplation as we go about our activities work to change our experience.
Life is short
“Impermanence means that the essence of life is fleeting.” Pema Chodron
When it comes to our physical condition, we’re quite content until signs of aging begin to show.
We may spend a serious amount of time trying to stop the process using whatever means available.
Be honest, wouldn’t you stop the clock if you could? Well, you can’t no matter what you do.
The sad part is that we only take notice when it’s too late, this in turn becomes our main concern.
Seize the moment
The same goes with the state of our body, we think of our health only when we’re weak and we hurt.
We forget that as years go by its needs change, we tend to dismiss getting old until it becomes obvious.
Life is passing, things don’t happen out of the blue so celebrate your health don’t abuse it, take care.
Impermanence reminds you that every moment counts, make the best of it and enjoy while you can.ॐ
Nathalie Bizawi, founder of Wisdom & Mindfulness meditation center. Senior Meditation, Mindfulness and philosophy instructor, From Wingate Academic College. M.A in Education from TAU University, Tel Aviv.
Wisdom & Mindfulness your meditation center in Tel Aviv