The Message of Impermanence
Medical Definition of transition
A passage from one state or stage to another especially: an abrupt change in energy state or level (as of an atomic nucleus or a molecule) usually accompanied by loss or gain of a single quantum of energy.
(Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
The practice of impermanence is calling me. I am re-evaluating my life and identities created involuntarily, unconsciously, just through mere human existence. At times like this, I feel I want to drop everything so I can see what will come back.
Sitting in silence, as I embrace the moment of awareness, this feeling of unease steps onto the stage of my being and begins to perform its ubiquitous act. "This is not a drill, this is not a dress rehearsal," it announces as it storms across my body, sweeping everything away with belly expanding, collapsing, turning black, turning grey.
I ask: “What are you trying to tell me? What are you calling me to notice?” And it says calmly, without any desire to negotiate, convince, insist or argue: “Impermanence.”
Such a simple way to say so much. I let a sigh out, it is almost a relief to know that it is the practice that is calling forth. Holding on to that thought is like holding on to a straw with the hope that it will prevent me from falling into an abyss. As I let a tear sparkle in the corner of my closed eyes, my hand moves toward Simba, my practice companion, my soul mate, my confidante, my teacher. I know that is the most difficult part of the journey ahead. I notice I am eager to negotiate: would it hurt less if I let go of my identity and many roles I play? Would it hurt less if I sacrifice something else? Can I trade one pain for another? The quiet voice still calmly states "Impermanence."
Leaves are falling,
Branches getting naked
Each moment passes,
The change, so sacred.
Look up!
Clouds are dancing in the sky.
I smile
Mystery resolved
Remember,
A cloud never dies.
When the cloud is no longer in the sky, it doesn’t mean the cloud has died. The cloud is continued in other forms like rain or snow or ice. So you can recognize your cloud in her new forms. If you are very fond of a beautiful cloud and if your cloud is no longer there, you should not be sad. Your beloved cloud might have become the rain, calling on you, ‘darling, darling, don’t you see me in my new form?’ And then you will not be stuck with grief and despair. Your beloved one continues always. Meditation helps you recognize her continued presence in new forms. A cloud can never die. A cloud can become snow, or hail …or rain. But it is impossible for a cloud to pass from being into non-being. And that is true with your beloved one. She has not died. She is continued in many new forms. And you can look deeply and recognize herself in you and around you. – Thich Nhat Hanh.
On Monday 12th October BMC donates Mindful Monday class fee to Robin from Satya Yoga. We wish him strength and smooth recovery.
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