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We have to make a consideration: emotional states are…

“We have to make a consideration: emotional states are deeply influenced by external events, and here lies the problem. Since the external events are unstable, namely, that they are in perpetual change - a situation that Buddhist tradition defines as “impermanence” - they are very difficult to be…” quote by Andrea Dandolo
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““We have to make a consideration: emotional states are deeply influenced by external events, and here lies the problem. Since the external events are unstable, namely, that they are in perpetual change - a situation that Buddhist tradition defines as “impermanence” - they are very difficult to be managed, and this bring people to panic. This difficulty to experience a reality in which nothing is permanent, that all is in constant motion- change, belongs to the human incapacity to accept the discontinuity of an occurrence of events that are always unpredictable and new. Impermanence is a principle that is a natural thing, but, in relation to the social and interhuman fields, this becomes a problem: especially in the last ten years, we can witness scenarios where instability, turbulence and uncertainty, frantically increase and continue to increase. Instability and change are perceivable everywhere - from the personal interaction between people to economic instability: in poor words, we don’t know what the future will bring to us and we feel a continuous pressure. People feel a need for safety and stability, but this is an impossible thing in the conditions in which society finds itself, and here lies one of the main reasons why tensions, anxiety, and panic have became common situations.””

Andrea Dandolo

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

External instability triggers panic because humans struggle to accept impermanence; this fuels anxiety in personal and societal realms.

In simple terms: Instability causes panic and anxiety.

Key Takeaway

Accept change to reduce anxiety.

Themes

impermanence anxiety change mindfulness society

Mood

anxious thoughtful serene

Type

Anxiety:1 Awareness:0 Change:1 Gurdjieff:0 Impermanence:1 Mindfulness-practice:0 Present moment:0 Ten years:0 Zen:0 Impermanence Difficult:0 New Impermanence:0 Impermanence Principle:0 Defines Impermanence:0

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • economic markets
  • political climates
  • mental health practice
  • spiritual retreats

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology Buddhism uncertainty resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can mindfulness mitigate panic?
  • What systems help manage uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

Emphasis on impermanence may neglect agency.

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