Chapter Eighteen Summary and Analysis

The three dharma seals of Buddha's teaching are impermanence, nonself and nirvana. Impermanence is not merely a philosophy, but must be practiced and nourished in daily life. Impermanence and nonself are the same, impermanence related to time and nonself to space. Impermanance itself does not cause suffering, but the desire that it not be so does. Practicing impermanence helps us cherish what is around and inside us. Impermanence makes transformation possible; if we live mindfully we appreciate fully every moment, knowing everything is impermanent, touching the "foundation of reality." Being and nonbeing are only notions. Hanh says nothing is ever lost or gained.

Nonself says that everything is connected with everything else, and nothing is separate. Having the insight of nonself can help us suffer less and enjoy more. We only think we are separated by race and religion...