Before we begin this week’s post, thank you so much to my paying subscribers for such enthusiastic and engaged responses to my article last week about my Dad. I was amazed how many of my own experiences resonated with you, and how different elements chimed with different people.
Thank you David for reinforcing what we often forget. I have the extraordinarily good fortune to live on land in the country. We have lived here for 30 years. It takes alot of work and I haven't always appreciated it but over the last few years, since reading your books and as the realization grows that our time here is short I have found myself more often stopping to take in the beauty and just be grateful for the moment. Gratitude helps to engender a sense of peace about whatever is to come, whenever that might be.
What a beautiful and moving message to receive Anne. I am so glad that this is your response to the Dharma - just as it should be. There is something very special about being close to nature, especially as we grow older.
Love this—Remembering impermanence helps take us off autopilot and awakens living more fully in the present.
This awareness helps us take pleasure in simple acts, such as mine right now- taking in the sight of late afternoon sunshine and birds among flowers outside my window.
How poignant the realization, there will be a last time I gaze upon this daily view.
I cherish this idea too—our sangha collectively holding hands virtually and recognizing goodness.
Goodness in what we are able to accomplish for all sentient beings and goodness in one another.
Thank you for initiating this space where we may help you and others to provide care for those in need—The photos of the elephants are so very moving. Long may these magnificent souls walk our beautiful planet. 🐘🐘🌏💟
Thank you, Linda, for so generously responding to my work, and also for helping foster a sense of community here by responding to other reader's comments also! I am so grateful!
Thanks for this beautiful reminder, David. 💕Yesterday I found myself feeling sad because of opportunities both past and present that are no longer appealing to me: a job I once wanted is open but at this age (77) and stage of life, I would not want to do it, nor would I be considered for it. Also, there are mentoring opportunities at the museum where I volunteer that I would have enjoyed doing years ago, but now, it seems like that would require more energy than I want to give.
I have always been a busy person who is fully engaged but find myself, in recent years, wanting to slow down.
In the entry way to my home we have a wall hanging with the Dali Lama’s Meditation on Death written on it. I remember when I first studied Buddhism, I found it strange to meditate or contemplate death. I find it interesting that, the older I get, the idea of impermanence becomes more real and after reading your post for today, I am reminded of what is really important. Again, my heart felt thanks for your words of wisdom. Namaste🥰
Many thanks indeed, Jann! I completely relate to what you say. 'Death' seems such a taboo subject to those outside the Dharma circle, but what a relief to be able to talk about the elephant in the room. I am sure many of us empathise with your wish to slow down a little ..!
Thank you for your response, David, and I also loved your post today; such a great reminder about obstacles being blessings 💕
I am wondering if you can write about the Buddhist concept of “…beginningless time…” Maybe there isn’t much to say about it but it is something that I have a hard time understanding. Thanks for considering.🪷
Thank you, David , for that reminder of impermanence. It is a powerful concept. And in our sometimes busy lives, we forget to be mindful, to be present in THIS moment because we don't know how long we will have it. Impermanence is one of the few sure things in our lives. The fact that EVERYTHING changes, NOTHING stays the same, should be a great motivator to BE in the present and enjoy every little moment. 🙏❤🙏
How timely this reminder is. Two days ago my husband who was my best friend and rock for 48 years made his transition. Although, he was not Buddhist he lived his life as a Buddha. Compassionate, loving, accepting, non judgmental and lived each day to the fullest. We were so fortunate to have him in our lives, and he was loved deeply as he loved us deeply.
So today I awoke and read your piece and got out of bed and took a meditative walk on the beach, looked at the ocean, thanked the universe and promised myself I would do my very best to live the rest of my life knowing that each day of this human life is such an amazing gift , and do my best to live it for the enlightenment of all living beings. I know I will need to remind myself often of this, but I do thank you from the bottom of my heart for this beautiful reminder.
My sincere condolences, Barb, on your loss. What a difficult time to be going through. That you know what you need to do and are already doing it is a true inspiration. You will be in my heart and meditations and, from the kind responses, you are in the thoughts of other readers around the world too. May your husband quickly, quickly attain complete and perfect enlightenment for the benefit of all beings without exception.
Barb, I am very sorry reading of your very recent loss of your husband and best friend—your rock for so many years. It doesnt matter we do not know one another…Arms around you❤️🩹🙏
Hmmm...my information is that were it not for the mystique created by de Beers to inflate & support the price of diamonds, colored gem stones -- rubies, etc. -- actually are much rarer than diamonds and should be far more valuable. Diamonds are common; gem-quality colored stones are much rarer.
Hi Catherine, it is true that the scarcity of diamonds has been artificially induced since the discovery of diamonds in South Africa and Russia. I am sorry this metaphor doesn't work for you. The rarity = preciousness equation was the real point I was wishing to make.
Thank you David. A subject the reverberates with me at this time. I don’t know who said “I don’t mind death, I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”. I feel
Much the same.
Thank you for the beautiful pictures. Your Flamboyant is magnificent and reminded me of home.
Thanks for the pictures of the Ellie’s. They are just so beautiful. ❤️
A wonderful post, thank you for sharing your gift of being able to put some very easy-to-avoid topics into reassuring and meaningful words. AND thanks for the Ellie valentines! I have tremendous admiration for those folks who work that closely with such magnificent elephants!
Yes the elie carers and handlers are amazing. It's easy to forget how extraordinarily large and powerful an elephant is and how easily they can do a human serious harm. They have different personalities and moods just like us, and the handlers need to read them at every moment.
Thanks again David. So did you just stay in the su9ite on the boat and live on room service? A microcosm of our privileged human life - we effectively live in luxury (the upgraded cabin), but eventually, you gotta go!
Thank you so much for such a timely reminder. I recently lost one of my brothers who lived the other side of the world, but I was able to fly over to say goodbye while he was still 'with it', but was still sad I had to watch his funeral on line. Such a confusing time, but this does help.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother, Elaine. Good that you went to see him when he was still alive and were able to say your goodbye in person. I am glad the post offers some support. Warmest wishes.
Thank you David….being quite poor by AMERICAN standards and wise enough to have chosen a simple life anyway with a knowing few can understand as in “ why are you so happy”…. Am happy because I know I’ve been given a great gift, a life full of purpose and with boundless gratitude even on the most challenging days I can honestly say to myself, “ there’s something here for you” so I quess what I’m saying is I have had as many dreams as stars in the sky and grateful that many have been fulfilled in a very blessed life.❤️❤️❤️A life lived in beauty, harmony and Love which to me is pretty close to perfection….How could I not be happy everyday…🙏🪷
Thank you David. Your wise words give me hope for a future of loving kindness and the pics of Roxy and the elephant caregivers tell me it is possible!♥️
Thank you David for reinforcing what we often forget. I have the extraordinarily good fortune to live on land in the country. We have lived here for 30 years. It takes alot of work and I haven't always appreciated it but over the last few years, since reading your books and as the realization grows that our time here is short I have found myself more often stopping to take in the beauty and just be grateful for the moment. Gratitude helps to engender a sense of peace about whatever is to come, whenever that might be.
What a beautiful and moving message to receive Anne. I am so glad that this is your response to the Dharma - just as it should be. There is something very special about being close to nature, especially as we grow older.
Heartfelt thanks,David,for this timely reminder of our impermanence
Thank YOU Lorna for so generously sharing my work, and for the always thought-prompting insights you share on your own Substack.
Love this—Remembering impermanence helps take us off autopilot and awakens living more fully in the present.
This awareness helps us take pleasure in simple acts, such as mine right now- taking in the sight of late afternoon sunshine and birds among flowers outside my window.
How poignant the realization, there will be a last time I gaze upon this daily view.
I cherish this idea too—our sangha collectively holding hands virtually and recognizing goodness.
Goodness in what we are able to accomplish for all sentient beings and goodness in one another.
Thank you for initiating this space where we may help you and others to provide care for those in need—The photos of the elephants are so very moving. Long may these magnificent souls walk our beautiful planet. 🐘🐘🌏💟
Thank you, Linda, for so generously responding to my work, and also for helping foster a sense of community here by responding to other reader's comments also! I am so grateful!
Thanks for this beautiful reminder, David. 💕Yesterday I found myself feeling sad because of opportunities both past and present that are no longer appealing to me: a job I once wanted is open but at this age (77) and stage of life, I would not want to do it, nor would I be considered for it. Also, there are mentoring opportunities at the museum where I volunteer that I would have enjoyed doing years ago, but now, it seems like that would require more energy than I want to give.
I have always been a busy person who is fully engaged but find myself, in recent years, wanting to slow down.
In the entry way to my home we have a wall hanging with the Dali Lama’s Meditation on Death written on it. I remember when I first studied Buddhism, I found it strange to meditate or contemplate death. I find it interesting that, the older I get, the idea of impermanence becomes more real and after reading your post for today, I am reminded of what is really important. Again, my heart felt thanks for your words of wisdom. Namaste🥰
Many thanks indeed, Jann! I completely relate to what you say. 'Death' seems such a taboo subject to those outside the Dharma circle, but what a relief to be able to talk about the elephant in the room. I am sure many of us empathise with your wish to slow down a little ..!
Thank you for your response, David, and I also loved your post today; such a great reminder about obstacles being blessings 💕
I am wondering if you can write about the Buddhist concept of “…beginningless time…” Maybe there isn’t much to say about it but it is something that I have a hard time understanding. Thanks for considering.🪷
Thank you, David , for that reminder of impermanence. It is a powerful concept. And in our sometimes busy lives, we forget to be mindful, to be present in THIS moment because we don't know how long we will have it. Impermanence is one of the few sure things in our lives. The fact that EVERYTHING changes, NOTHING stays the same, should be a great motivator to BE in the present and enjoy every little moment. 🙏❤🙏
Couldn't agree with you more, thank you so much Marianne!
Hi David
How timely this reminder is. Two days ago my husband who was my best friend and rock for 48 years made his transition. Although, he was not Buddhist he lived his life as a Buddha. Compassionate, loving, accepting, non judgmental and lived each day to the fullest. We were so fortunate to have him in our lives, and he was loved deeply as he loved us deeply.
So today I awoke and read your piece and got out of bed and took a meditative walk on the beach, looked at the ocean, thanked the universe and promised myself I would do my very best to live the rest of my life knowing that each day of this human life is such an amazing gift , and do my best to live it for the enlightenment of all living beings. I know I will need to remind myself often of this, but I do thank you from the bottom of my heart for this beautiful reminder.
Thank you David
Barb F.
My sincere condolences, Barb, on your loss. What a difficult time to be going through. That you know what you need to do and are already doing it is a true inspiration. You will be in my heart and meditations and, from the kind responses, you are in the thoughts of other readers around the world too. May your husband quickly, quickly attain complete and perfect enlightenment for the benefit of all beings without exception.
Heartfelt condolences for the very recent loss of your husband, Barb.
Barb, I am very sorry reading of your very recent loss of your husband and best friend—your rock for so many years. It doesnt matter we do not know one another…Arms around you❤️🩹🙏
Hmmm...my information is that were it not for the mystique created by de Beers to inflate & support the price of diamonds, colored gem stones -- rubies, etc. -- actually are much rarer than diamonds and should be far more valuable. Diamonds are common; gem-quality colored stones are much rarer.
Hi Catherine, it is true that the scarcity of diamonds has been artificially induced since the discovery of diamonds in South Africa and Russia. I am sorry this metaphor doesn't work for you. The rarity = preciousness equation was the real point I was wishing to make.
Thank you David. A subject the reverberates with me at this time. I don’t know who said “I don’t mind death, I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”. I feel
Much the same.
Thank you for the beautiful pictures. Your Flamboyant is magnificent and reminded me of home.
Thanks for the pictures of the Ellie’s. They are just so beautiful. ❤️
Always lovely to hear from you, Peter!
A wonderful post, thank you for sharing your gift of being able to put some very easy-to-avoid topics into reassuring and meaningful words. AND thanks for the Ellie valentines! I have tremendous admiration for those folks who work that closely with such magnificent elephants!
Yes the elie carers and handlers are amazing. It's easy to forget how extraordinarily large and powerful an elephant is and how easily they can do a human serious harm. They have different personalities and moods just like us, and the handlers need to read them at every moment.
I enjoyed reading about impermanence,
Good topic!
Many thanks Brigitte!
You are welcome.
Thanks again David. So did you just stay in the su9ite on the boat and live on room service? A microcosm of our privileged human life - we effectively live in luxury (the upgraded cabin), but eventually, you gotta go!
Exactly! Make the most of our time here. As I suspect you already do, Chris!
Thank you, David, for your post on impermanence, which is relevant now with uncertain situations in the world.
Many thanks Wendy. Yes, we live in volatile times.
Thank you so much for such a timely reminder. I recently lost one of my brothers who lived the other side of the world, but I was able to fly over to say goodbye while he was still 'with it', but was still sad I had to watch his funeral on line. Such a confusing time, but this does help.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother, Elaine. Good that you went to see him when he was still alive and were able to say your goodbye in person. I am glad the post offers some support. Warmest wishes.
Thank you so much David, so much appreciated.
Sorry for the loss of your brother, Elaine.
Very sorry for the loss of your brother. What care and love he must have felt having you near him toward the end. Heartfelt condolences. ❤️🩹
Linda that's very kind of you to respond like that. Thank you so much.
Thank you David….being quite poor by AMERICAN standards and wise enough to have chosen a simple life anyway with a knowing few can understand as in “ why are you so happy”…. Am happy because I know I’ve been given a great gift, a life full of purpose and with boundless gratitude even on the most challenging days I can honestly say to myself, “ there’s something here for you” so I quess what I’m saying is I have had as many dreams as stars in the sky and grateful that many have been fulfilled in a very blessed life.❤️❤️❤️A life lived in beauty, harmony and Love which to me is pretty close to perfection….How could I not be happy everyday…🙏🪷
Wonderful, Adrienne. It sounds like you have embodied the Dharma in an exquisite way!
Holding virtual hands with you all!
Many thanks for sharing the circle, Stacey!
Thank you David. Your wise words give me hope for a future of loving kindness and the pics of Roxy and the elephant caregivers tell me it is possible!♥️
Certainly is, Patricia! My sincere thanks for your ongoing support.