The Sixth Contemplation

Do you have a chronic health issue? A disease that has been with you for a long time? Do you feel fragile and vulnerable?

I am in my late 60's and my health is good. I work at it every day. But I have chronic health issues that have plagued me for 25-45 years.

I thought they were well managed until this year. Suddenly, my asthma was out of control, my interstitial cystitis was flaring up most days, and my piriformis syndrome got worse. Additionally, I was inexplicably gaining weight and symptoms of systemic candidadiasis were back, pointing to hormonal imbalance.

After I got over feeling hopeless, frustrated and mad, I was inspired to try new solutions, experimenting with new drugs, and new physical therapy treatments. Who knew a speech therapist could help me manage my asthmatic coughing? 

Amazingly, I am feeling about 50-70% better, although I could really use a new bladder, if you know of one.

I feel very humbled by this. At any time, things can change. Drastically. Sickness can arrive at any time. We just never know. Impermanence reigns supreme.

The Nine Contemplations, written in the 11th century by the Buddhist monk and scholar Atisha, addresses the twisting, jeweled path of life and ultimately death. They are a quiet warning of the inevitable and the need for preparation, so that we can go beyond fear and live a fully engaged life.

The Sixth contemplation is:

"My body is fragile and vulnerable. The human body is fragile and vulnerable. My life hangs by a thread."

What makes you feel fragile and vulnerable?