In this precious human life, we walk through a delicate circle, where friends and loved ones gather sometimes to rejoice in the ripening of good karma: birth, success, and meaningful union. And at other times, to sit in silence at the threshold of impermanence, as we part ways in the moment of death. We come together in shared joy, celebrating the fleeting happiness of this world laughter, warmth, companionship. And when the causes change, we gather again, not in celebration, but with prayers, offerings, and remembrance, honoring the truth of samsara and the path beyond it. Yet, even in this shared journey, the mind gives rise to jealousy, to comparison and competition. We look outward for worth, measuring ourselves against others, forgetting the immeasurable refuge already within us. Too often, we seek the Three Jewels only when struck by suffering. In moments of comfort, we forget the Guru, neglect the Dharma, and overlook the truth of cause and effect. This forgetfulness is our deepest loss not material, but spiritual. So we must walk this life with mindfulness, carrying the awareness that all things are impermanent. Each breath is a passing moment, each meeting a fragile miracle. To live awake is to live gently to move through the world with a heart that chooses not to harm, even in thought. If we can’t always help, at the very least, may we not hurt. Such is the nature of conditioned existence impermanent, interdependent, yet deeply profound. Each meeting and parting a reflection of karma and connection, each relationship an opportunity for compassion and awakening. What endures beyond both joy and sorrow is the virtue we cultivated, the love we extended, and the Dharma that carried us through every changing tide. In the end, only awareness, wisdom, and compassion remain guiding us beyond time, beyond self, toward liberation.

Simdha Getul