In Buddhism monks recite daily the Five Remembrances, which are: I will lose my youth, my health, my dear ones and everything I hold dear, and finally lose life itself, by the very nature of my being human. These are bitter reminders that the only thing that continues is the consequences of our action. The fact that all the things we hold dear and love are transient does not mean that we should love them less but-as I do Karen and Serena-love them even more. Suffering, the Buddha said, if it does not diminish love, will transport you to the farther shore.
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.
