While running the other day, grappling with the changes facing our country, the word impermanence kept coming up. When I got home, I looked up the official meaning of the word to delve more into its significance.
“Impermanence refers to the uncertain and temporary nature of much of what we regard as reality. However, despite continuous change, we often mistakenly invest in multiple aspects of life as if they are fixed and certain, such as our relationships, jobs, income, and housing. Expecting temporary circumstances to remain permanent intensifies the pain and suffering of loss, grief, rejection, and disappointment when change does arise. Recognizing the all-pervading nature of impermanence can trigger anxiety about life’s uncertain and unpredictable nature. Yet, accepting impermanence can also be liberating because it opens us up to a world of endless possibilities.”
As we gather with friends and family around a Thanksgiving table this year, we might notice impermanence physically and mentally. We will remember people who have passed on, friends whose relationships changed over time or circumstance, and even a conversation about the impermanence of our country’s future.
As the Buddhist description above states, understanding change is inevitable. It helps us focus on what we have right now, the people in our lives, and the good fortunes we have, such as food, warmth, and shelter, and to be grateful because this scenario could be different next year or even tomorrow.
Today’s Thanksgiving Message and Wednesday Wisdom inspire you to focus on what is right in front of you, who is right beside you, and what you are blessed with now. Forget about tomorrow, it isn’t here yet and we can’t predict its future. Soak in the meaning of this special holiday with love and joy and let’s revel in its impermanence.
Women TIES 