The Five Remembrances February 4, 2015

A few years ago, I participated in a Zen/Yoga retreat at Tassajara.  Our teacher Linda Cutts shared a powerful teaching known as the Five Remembrances. When I find myself in a challenging personal situation, I think on these words.  Perhaps they will be helpful to you, too.

I am of the nature to grow old. There is no way to escape growing old.

I am of the nature to have ill health. There is no way to escape ill health.

I am of the nature to die. There is no way to escape death.

All that is dear to me and everyone I love are of the nature to change. There is no way to escape being separated from them.

My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand.