Impermanence and Interdependence: Life Lessons Learned from Firewood and Ashes

Our lives are made up of a myriad of intertwined and interdependent elements. Rather than viewing things in terms of simple cause-and-effect relationships or linear time flow, we can have a richer outlook on life by understanding impermanence and the law of karma. In the limitless Law of the Self, there is life and there is death. Firewood burns and turns to ash. The ashes do not return to firewood. But do not look at the firewood first and the ashes second." Through these words, let us explore the teachings of impermanence and interdependence.

First, the phenomenon of firewood burning to ash illustrates the laws of impermanence and interdependence. At first glance, the relationship appears to be linear, with firewood first and ashes second, but in reality, firewood and ashes are interdependent and mutually influencing each other. Without firewood, ash would not be created, and ash also has its raison d'etre in the process of firewood consumption.

This interdependent relationship is important in understanding the nature of things and the connections between them. By recognizing that all phenomena and things, not just the example of firewood and ashes, are related to each other and are established through this relationship, it is possible to understand the world from a broader perspective.

The impermanence of life and death also indicates what attitude we should have toward life. Understanding that the various events in our lives are impermanent and that everything is connected allows us to be flexible and grateful for the present moment, rather than being stuck in the past or future.