Clinging Quote by John C. Parkin
““Maybe it's because we innately know that everything is impermanent that we so desperately cling to it. But cling we do. We know that our youth vanishes that we and our loved one will die one day, that whatever we have accumulated can easily be taken away from us, that one day our skills might not be wanted, that a day may come when our love might not be reciprocated. But we go on clinging. Everywhere we turn we are faced with impermanence. (..) The more we cling - of course - the more pain we feel as things fade, disappear, die around us. And sometimes the more we cling, the more these things happen. (..) The key to being able to let go of all the stuff you're holding on to is knowing that you'll be okay if you don't have it. And that's the truth. You can survive with very little. And though the passing of people and things can be painful, you will survive.””
About This Quote
Source Talk: Mindfulness Lecture, 2018
Impermanence causes attachment; attachment creates suffering; recognizing impermanence allows letting go and resilience.
In simple terms: Understanding change helps reduce clinging and pain.
Key Takeaway
Accept change to lessen suffering.
Themes
impermanence
attachment
pain
resilience
acceptance
Mood
thoughtful
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- relationship loss
- career change
- aging
- health decline
- material loss
Key Concepts
Buddhist philosophy
psychology
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What can you release without fear?
- How does acceptance change your daily actions?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex grief processes.
