This too shall pass
Today’s topic of discussion during our morning walk was about life’s mysteries. No one knows what’s in store. When everything is going well, suddenly some unforeseen events overturn the entire life which took years to build. Same way it takes a turn for the good also. Pratap started the conversation with a genuine question.
“So, how can one keep afloat in all situations?”
“Believe in impermanence. Nothing is permanent. Change is the only thing that is permanent. At the same time, remember that opportunities are always there. We are all ordinary mortals. Everyone must leave this world one day abruptly, leaving behind all the possessions. Practice humility and simplicity throughout your life irrespective of the situation.”
“Can you please give some simple adage which comes handy and easy to remember?”
“Always remember these four words, THIS TOO SHALL PASS in any situation. I will elaborate a bit on this.
The origin dates to the ancient Jewish tradition and Persian Sufi poets. There’s also one popular and interesting story which is known as Solomen’s Ring. It goes like this:
King Solomen asked his advisors to get a ring; if you look at the ring when you are happy, you will become sad, and if you look at the ring when you are sad, you will become happy. The advisors thought that the King has gone crazy. How can one even think about such weird thing? Anyhow, it’s the King’s order. You don’t have a choice. They were given one month time to complete the task.
After lot of efforts, the advisors brought a ring and offered to the King. The King took the ring and looked at it. Something was inscribed on the ring. He paused for some time and looked very happy. He congratulated his advisors.
The King showed it to the gathering in the Monarch’s Hall and read out aloud what was engraved on the ring; This Too Shall Pass.”
“But don’t you think that it makes people scary and depressed? And it will also hamper their enthusiasm to pursue something worth”.
“If you want to think like that, it’s up to you. But look at the other side too and decide accordingly. There’s always a choice. Few things worth mentioning are:
- You are ready to face the reality. You see opportunities everywhere. Only thing is, one must assess the situation and opt for the right option. Be proactive about back up plans. There’s always scope for hope.
- Don’t cling to attachments. Try to find out the very purpose of your being. Make useful utilisation of time. After all, It’s a limited period offer.”
