Accepting Impermanence

Today, take a minute (or more) and think about impermanence. Accepting the impermanence of life is one of the most fundamental teachings of Buddhism. The teachings surround the concept that the primary source of human suffering is clinging to things that we want or even believe will last forever. This is part of the purpose Buddhist monks make intricate mandalas in the sand and then wipe them away — to face the reality of impermanence. Ouch, most of us don’t like to think about it — our fleeting existence. I think perhaps this is why many fight the aging process. Maybe if we dye our hair — or engage in other age-defying improvements, then we don’t have to look our mortality in the face every day. Maybe “aging gracefully” really means “discovering the grace” of aging. I believe the grace of aging is wisdom, peace, and acceptance. What “grace” has aging brought to you.