Sometimes, a single Zen word reminds us of something
we already knew… but often forget.
Today’s whisper is mujō — impermanence.
Zen Riddle
Zen Riddle:
If everything is always changing,
why do we feel surprised when it actually does?
Cultural Unpack
In Japanese Zen, “impermanence” is not sad.
It’s simply the natural rhythm of life.
Cherry blossoms fall.
Summer heat fades.
People come and go.
Nothing is meant to stay the same — and that’s what makes each moment precious.
Impermanence is not a warning.
It’s a gentle reminder to look closely.
Everyday Meaning
It means:
You don’t have to cling.
You don’t have to resist change.
The difficult moments will pass.
The beautiful moments will also pass.
But both are meant to be lived — not controlled.
Micro Practice
Zen Practice for Today:
Notice one thing that is changing right now.
Your breath.
The light through the window.
Your own emotion.
Let the change happen without trying to fix it.
That is mujō.
Ridley & Nazonazo-san
“So… change isn’t the enemy?”
“No. It’s the teacher. It shows us what to hold and what to let go.”
Everything changes.
And that is why everything matters.
