Impermanence is the first of the Three Dharma Seals, meaning
it is a core element in the teachings of Buddha. Buddhism teaches that
everything is impermanent. Whether it is nature, thoughts, feelings or even
inanimate objects around our house, nothing is permanent. Everything is
constantly changing around us. Buddhists embrace impermanence because it is
what causes society to develop. Many people may think that change makes us
suffer, but does it really? Buddha used an example of a dog being hit by a
stone to address this question. The dog became angry at the stone and therefore
became mentally distraught. “What makes us suffer is wanting things to be
permanent when they are not” (Hanh 132). Our awareness of this brings to light
the importance of our friendships, valuables etc.
“Impermanence is more than an idea.
It is a practice to help us touch reality” (Hanh 131). We learn to cope with
things better once we grasp the reality of impermanence; this is mindful
living. Impermanence makes you appreciate what you have, who you have, and
where you are in life. When I become frustrated with my girlfriend or annoyed
that my internet is slow, I need to step back and take a deep breath. I need to
understand that this is only temporary and appreciate that I actually have a
girlfriend and internet access, because that could all be gone in an instant.
One of my favorite quotes in The Heart of
Buddha’s Teaching is “The teaching of impermanence helps us appreciate
fully what is there, without attachment or forgetfulness” (Hanh 133). This
comforts me because understanding impermanence rules out these two major
contributions to suffering.
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