Everything Is Temporary

Some pieces of wisdom are so powerful that they can accompany us throughout our entire lives.

One of them is: “This too shall pass.”

Today, I’d like to share a parable with you that brings this truth to life in a moving and unforgettable way.

The Story of the King and the Ring

Once upon a time, there was a king who gave his court sages an unusual task: “I have a ring with one of the most beautiful diamonds in the world. Beneath the stone, I want to engrave a message—one that can bring comfort in times of deepest despair. It must be short enough to fit inside the ring.”

The wise men pondered for days, but none could find the right words.

Desperate, the king turned to an old servant who had been with him since childhood. The old man said: “I am no scholar, but long ago a mystic who once visited your father gave me a message. Keep it hidden in your ring—but read it only when there is absolutely no way out.”

The Moment of Truth

Years later, war broke out. The king lost control of his land and fled from his enemies. Eventually, he found himself at the edge of a deep cliff—no way forward, no way back. Alone, surrounded, and desperate.

Then he remembered the ring.

He opened it and read the words engraved beneath the diamond: “This too shall pass.”

Suddenly, everything became quiet. His pursuers were gone.The panic turned to stillness. The king took a deep breath, gathered his strength, and returned to rebuild his kingdom.

The Second Realization

Back at the palace, the people celebrated his return with a grand festival. Music, cheers, joy—he was proud and overjoyed.

Then the old servant approached him and quietly said: “Read the message again.”

The king replied, “Why? Everything is good now.”But the old man gently insisted: “The message is not only for moments of despair—it’s also for moments of triumph.”

The king opened the ring once more—and read again: “This too shall pass.”

A moment of humility washed over him. Despite the noise and celebration, he felt a deep inner stillness. He understood: Nothing lasts forever—not pain, and not glory.

The Message of Impermanence

The servant said: “Nothing—and no feeling—is permanent. Just as night follows day, joy and sorrow take turns. Accept this—it is the nature of life.”

What We Can Learn from This Parable

This story reminds us of a deep human truth: Everything is temporary.

When we truly internalize this, it creates space for calm, for acceptance, and for inner peace—even in the stormiest of times.

Whether you're going through a difficult phase or enjoying a moment of happiness:Let this message stay with you—this too shall pass.

Would you like to integrate this perspective more deeply into your daily life?

In my courses, workshops, and coaching sessions, mindfulness plays a central role.If you're curious to learn more or take the first step into practice, feel free to get in touch.

Everything is temporary.