The Impermanence of All Things

The impermanence of all things, what is it? Deeply rooted in Buddhist teaching, it is the understanding that all things are in flux, and move and change according to fate beyond our control; that everything is temporary. By accepting the impermanence of all things, we accept that so many variables are in play beyond our control and must be content with the present as it comes, even if that includes disappointment. By attaining this acceptance, we remain mindful and grounded, and aware of the risk of Dukkha– or suffering — if we do not abide by the teachings of Annica– the impermanence of self.

Happiness first requires that we are reliant upon our own good fortune. It means maintaining a healthy and positive mindset, to not dwell in the negatives or ask questions we do not have answers to. It means not expecting others to give us happiness, but that we are in charge of our own mindset by remaining centered. By putting positive energy into the world, we invite it in return. We choose to focus on all the good in the present, and shift our mindset to all the good that is to come. Disappointment is part of the impermanence of all things, it too is temporary. So long as we remain committed to the impermanence of self, we too shall avoid the pitfalls of suffering by developing resilience.

Annica is probably the hardest Buddhist principle to live by. It is something I have devoted recent meditations to, this idea of the ever-changing non-self– we are always in flux and subject to the forces of the universe around us. I remain hopefully optimistic for my immediate and long term future for all of the positive change I have undertaken. I put out into the world that which I wish to receive. When things don’t work out, and life tests us as it always does, so long as we accept that which we cannot control — the impermanence of all things — we accept maintaining our happiness because we are resilient and march forward past anything life throws our way.

It is a reminder that however you are feeling presently, this too shall pass. Maintain hope and optimism in abundance. We must always believe beautiful things are possible by maintaining that mindset in the present.