Can Wildfires Awaken Us to The Impermanence of Our Precious Lives?

The teachings on impermanence remind us of a truth we often shy away from: nothing lasts forever. We live amidst constant change, and the things we hold dear, the places we call home, even the people we cherish, are all subject to time and transformation. Can wildfires awaken us to the impermanence of our precious lives? This realization is not meant to bring despair but to awaken us to the preciousness of each moment and the urgency of living with intention.

The recent wildfires consuming parts of Los Angeles—a city I once called home—serve as a vivid reminder of this truth. A place that shaped countless lives, including my own, now faces an unrelenting force of nature. These fires strip away the familiar, leaving behind only ash and memory. Yet, within such loss lies a stark clarity: life is fragile, unpredictable, and achingly precious. We cannot take anything or anyone for granted.

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Living Fully Amid Change

Buddhist teachings encourage us to meet impermanence with courage and clarity. It is not about clinging to what will inevitably change but about opening our hearts to the beauty of what is here, right now. The joy of a conversation, the kindness of a stranger, the simple act of breathing—all these moments become profoundly meaningful when we recognize their impermanence.

When we embrace this truth, we begin to see each day as an opportunity—a chance to grow, to connect, and to deepen our understanding of ourselves and others. By releasing our grasp on what cannot be held, we make space for renewal and transformation, for fresh beginnings amid the remnants of the past.

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Impermanence also calls us to cultivate resilience and compassion. When life consumes what we love, it is our inner strength and our care for one another that carry us through. A whispered word of comfort, the quiet presence of a friend, or the shared silence of meditation can transform pain into connection and growth. How we live—how we choose to treat others and how we care for ourselves—matters deeply.

Seizing the Moment

There is no better time than now to live fully and authentically. If there is someone you’ve been meaning to reconnect with, reach out. If there’s a dream you’ve been putting off, take the first step. If gratitude has been overshadowed by routine, pause and reflect on the gifts you already have. These actions, however small, are the seeds of a meaningful life.

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If you want to have my support and the support of a meditation community, consider joining us for the workshop Fresh Start, New Beginning, January 19th in Stockholm. Together, we will listen inward, set our intentions forward, and lay the groundwork for a year of meditation ahead. This workshop is designed to help you align with your deeper aspirations, offering a sacred space to reflect and renew. Be the beacon you want to be in life by committing to your inner work. Regular Triyana Meditation classes in Stockholm begin in February—a perfect opportunity to nurture your practice and connect with others on the path. By building a foundation of consistent meditation, you can strengthen your ability to navigate life’s inevitable changes with grace and purpose.

A Call to Reflect and Act

When the world shifts, we are reminded not only of what can be lost but also of what can be gained: a deeper appreciation for life’s fragility and a renewed commitment to live with purpose. Are we living in alignment with our values? Are we expressing the love and gratitude we feel? Are we stepping forward with courage and clarity?

This is not a call to perfection but a call to presence. When we embrace impermanence, we stop sleepwalking through life. We wake up to its vibrancy, its urgency, and its infinite potential. Each day, each interaction, and each breath becomes an opportunity to create meaning.

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May we all learn to cherish each moment, to seize opportunities while they are present, and to hold one another close, knowing that nothing—and no one—is guaranteed to stay. May we move forward with open hearts, clear intentions, and a willingness to embrace the painful yet meaningful lessons of impermanence.

Join the Journey

If you feel inspired to take the next step in your meditation journey, join us for our upcoming events. The Fresh Start, New Beginning workshop offers a profound way to start the year with clarity and intention. Our regular Triyana Meditation classes in Stockholm, starting in February, provide a supportive environment to deepen your practice and anchor your inner work. Together, we can face life’s changes with strength, resilience, and compassion.

Heartfelt Greetings,

Lama Chimey

Published by Lama Chimey

Buddhist Minister, Meditation & Dharma Teacher

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