Chapter 1: The Challenge of Impermanence

If one truly grasped the essence of impermanence, worldly pursuits would fade, making way for what truly matters. As fleeting beings composed of ever-moving molecules, we exist alongside a non-material consciousness.

Just as a cloud is not expected to remain static or be labeled with a permanent name, we too must understand that our time here is finite. Failing to acknowledge this reality risks squandering our precious human existence on trivialities and distractions.

Impermanence is evident everywhere: from the transition of day into night to the changing seasons and the inevitability of death. Despite knowing this, I often struggle to keep it at the forefront of my mind. I tend to assume there will always be a tomorrow, allowing distractions and entertainment to overshadow more meaningful pursuits.

Even the wisest among us grapple with a strong attachment to life. When fatigue sets in, I often find myself binge-watching a series on Netflix. Online, I can easily lose myself in an endless loop of clicks. During meditation, creative thoughts surge, compelling me to abandon my practice to capture them immediately.

I could be frustrated with my spiritual laziness. Yet, as the Yoga Sutra suggests, there is an innate desire for continuity within us all, leading us to believe in our eternal existence. Perhaps I should afford myself some grace while simultaneously acknowledging the need to integrate the concept of impermanence into my spiritual journey more fully.

Buddhism, which I have explored for several years, identifies meditation on impermanence as a foundational practice. This essential work must be established before progressing to more advanced practices. However, in today's online landscape, many individuals claim spiritual enlightenment and teach advanced meditation techniques like Advaita Vedanta, Dzogchen, and Mahamudra, making it tempting to bypass foundational practices.

Is this a wise approach?

This brings to mind the story of the great Tibetan saint, Milarepa. He believed he could easily grasp advanced teachings and was sent to a renowned Dzogchen master. However, his arrogance and laziness led him to squander the opportunity. His frustrated teacher ultimately sent him to another master, Marpa, who required Milarepa to build and dismantle numerous towers before imparting a single lesson.

While some may have extraordinary karma that allows for immediate awakening, it's unwise to overlook the necessary preliminary steps that secure one's spiritual future. A robust remembrance of impermanence acts as the cornerstone of your spiritual edifice. Without this solid base, your spiritual practice may crumble when faced with challenges.

For instance, boredom during meditation or social invitations can easily divert your focus from spiritual growth. New distractions will always emerge, but a strong awareness of impermanence can help keep you anchored in your practice.

Chapter 2: Incorporating Daily Rituals

Incorporating the essence of impermanence into daily life can be transformative. Consider starting and ending your day with reflective practices. For instance, each morning, I find value in this brief ritual inspired by the Dalai Lama:

“Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.”

By acknowledging the gift of life, you naturally reinforce the lesson of impermanence, embedding it more deeply into your existence.

At night, you might follow the practices of contemplative masters from history. Each evening, they would turn their cups upside down beside their beds, reminding themselves of the uncertainty of the next day.

For a mid-day reminder, contemplate this verse:

“Whatever is born is impermanent and is bound to die. Whatever is stored up is impermanent and is bound to run out. Whatever comes together is impermanent and is bound to come apart. Whatever is built is impermanent and is bound to collapse. Whatever rises up is impermanent and is bound to fall down. So also, friendship and enmity, fortune and sorrow, good and evil, all the thoughts that run through your mind—everything is always changing.”

—from The Words of My Perfect Teacher by Patrül Rinpoche

The more you meditate on impermanence, the more you value your limited time in this world, using it wisely.

Once you embark on a spiritual journey, sustaining it is not guaranteed. Distractions will relentlessly vie for your attention. The Yoga Sutra highlights humanity's inherent desire for continuity, leading many to procrastinate their spiritual pursuits, believing they have endless time.

However, don’t fall into that trap. The future is uncertain; tomorrow is never promised. Instead, establish a solid foundation for your spiritual practice by embracing the reality of impermanence and reflecting on it daily.

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