One simple truth: life is short. How often do you think about that fact? According to Buddhism, we should reflect on impermanence three times a day — once in the morning, once in the afternoon, and once in the evening. Everything passes by, and before we know it, our lives will, too. Maybe it sounds excessive to think about death so often, but you know what? It can be freeing. No one knows when their time will come, and that’s precisely why we should embrace the life we have and focus on finding happiness.
It took me 32 years to truly grasp this. The journey wasn’t easy, but I think I’ve finally arrived at that understanding. This morning, I was talking with my husband, reminiscing about the time we became parents. We were alone with a tiny newborn, facing the most terrifying experience of our lives. And it wasn’t just the beginning that was difficult — we had little support, we felt clueless, and we had never envisioned ourselves as people who thrived in a big family. We had one child, and we leaned into that decision.
Time Slipping Away
No one can fully prepare you for parenthood. Whatever you expect to happen — chances are, it won’t go that way. At least, that was our reality. We survived that first year, but even after that, I often felt dissatisfied — discontented with small things, with myself, and with the way my life had changed. I never enjoyed motherhood the way I saw other parents seemingly embrace it. While others planned for more children, I found myself dwelling on time slipping away rather than focusing on the future.
But as the days passed, I began working on myself — both mentally and physically. I disconnected from distractions, started reading more, and rediscovered the things I love. I expressed myself in new ways, and little by little, I began to enjoy my days more. My family became my center, and to my surprise, it fulfilled me in ways I never thought possible. I realized that joy had been there all along — I just hadn’t been present enough to see it. At the same time, I acknowledged that our days are numbered. Every smile, every tear, every heartache and loss — they are inevitable. And one day, they will all be gone.
So why waste precious moments on stress, frustration, or things beyond our control? Imagine not allowing an annoying driver or an unexpected setback to ruin your day. Imagine having the energy to be present with your loved ones instead of mindlessly scrolling on your phone or staring at a screen. Going for a walk, doing something fulfilling — choosing engagement over exhaustion. Because truthfully, you’ll be tired either way, so why not make it count?
Appreciate the Journey
Embrace every moment, because no one knows what the future holds. When I finally accepted this fact, I found myself happier and more at peace than ever before. In a world where people are treated unfairly because of their beliefs, their skin color, or simply for being who they are, we must be the change we wish to see. We can’t control everything, but we can take small steps — raising our children with kindness, speaking words of encouragement, respecting others even when we disagree. These are simple choices, but they matter.
So, what will it be? A life filled with stress and negativity, or one filled with gratitude and hope? The choice is ours. I choose the latter.
And in making that choice, I’ve realised that true fulfilment comes from within. It’s about appreciating the journey, cherishing the people we love, and making a difference, no matter how small. Life is fleeting, but within its brevity lies its beauty. So let’s make each moment count, not just for ourselves but for those around us. After all, our legacy is not in what we own, but in the love, kindness, and joy we share with the world.
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