Buddhist monks engage with the Five Remembrances daily, acknowledging the inevitable losses that accompany human life, such as youth, health, loved ones, and ultimately, life itself. These reflections serve as poignant reminders of life's impermanence and the impact of our actions, emphasizing that while everything we cherish is temporary, the consequences of our actions endure. Rather than deterring us from loving, this awareness encourages deeper affection toward those we hold dear.

The teachings suggest that suffering, as expressed by the Buddha, has the potential to enhance our capacity for love, rather than diminish it. This idea resonates with Huston Smith's experiences, highlighting that the path through suffering can lead to profound understanding and connection, allowing us to cherish our loved ones even more intensely amidst the transience of life.