Impermanence

The concept of impermanence, a creation not from Stoicism, is aligned with the exact same system of thinking. An essential doctrine in Buddhism, impermanence asserts that all of conditioned existence, without exception, is "transient, evanescent, inconstant". This flow of change manifests itself everywhere and in every corner of the universe.

“Each night, when I go to sleep, I die. And the next morning, when I wake up, I am reborn.” — Mahatma Gandhi

The natural order (birth, aging, death) and accepting fate in accordance with nature are core principles of Stoicism. This natural order is a direct reflection of the very nature of impermanence. Every conversation, birthday, and life event has come and gone. The very existence of those experiences at this point in time are worth as much as the memories they created and the messages that resonated.

Daunting as this may sound, the acceptance of impermanence can be a truly beautiful way to experience life. The perspective that all of life is temporary, that experiences are lived and are unalterable in the past, lends itself to a narrowed life focus. With this focus, life can be a constant reinvention and process of growth. At each moment, the choice can be made to live differently (and hopefully a bit more virtuously). With each day and each passing moment, a rebirth can occur.

Stoic philosophers were very familiar with this concept of change, growth, and death. Seneca spoke often on these subjects, specifically on death and how to accept it as the singular eventuality of life. We pass by death everyday and most people have a very difficult time accepting this fate. Understanding that the very nature of the universe is impermanent can maybe help in this acceptance.

"Man is affected not by events but by the view he takes of them." — Seneca

Stoicism is built around accepting events as they occur rather than wishing for them to happen as desired. This acceptance allows for a simpler comprehension of impermanence and places a more direct emphasis on the preciousness of life. To live beautifully, focus on what can be controlled and let the rest flow as it normally would.