Being happy Quote by Ajahn Chah
“One day some people came to the master and asked: How can you be happy in a world of such impermanence, where you cannot protect your loved ones from harm, illness or death? The master held up a glass and said: Someone gave me this glass; It holds my water admirably and it glistens in the sunlight. I touch it and it rings! One day the wind may blow it off the shelf, or my elbow may knock it from the table. I know this glass is already broken, so I enjoy it - incredibly.”
About This Quote
Source Sutra: Teachings of Ajahn Chah, 1995
Impermanence means all things, even cherished ones, are fragile; by accepting this, we can fully appreciate them without clinging.
In simple terms: Accept fragility to enjoy the present.
Key Takeaway
Live fully, knowing everything is temporary.
Themes
impermanence
mindfulness
acceptance
Mood
serene
thoughtful
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- meditation practice
- grief counseling
- daily gratitude
- art therapy
Key Concepts
Buddhist philosophy
psychology of loss
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acceptance change your relationship to loss?
- What practices help you savor moments?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex grief processes.
