In this episode, I begin with a brief celebration of the 5th anniversary of this podcast and 1 million unique downloads, then move to a reflection on conditioned existence through the lens of climate change and the pandemic.

The Buddha taught that we suffer because of change and conditioned existence. In other words, we suffer because we have a nature that is impermanent and and changeable, based on the conditions that affect us. Because of the truth of conditioned existence, there is nothing for sure ... absolute ... unchanging.

We suffer because we expect and/or desire things to be otherwise. In thinking about the smoke from wildfires and the Covid pandemic, we see that we're collectively facing the truth of life: that we have little control over the things that happen to us. The only thing we can control is our response to the things that happen to us.

Listen as I share a reflection on how these times of change and uncertainty are a time of opportunity. An opportunity to change our perspectives from habits of fear, despair, grief, or anger to more noble, compassionate responses to everyone and every being we share our world with.

  Become a patron to support this podcast and get special member benefits, including a membership community and virtual sangha:https://www.patreon.com/EverydayBuddhism   Check out my Substack posts for more everyday Buddhism: https://wendyshinyohaylett.substack.com/   If this podcast has helped you understand Buddhism or help in your everyday life, consider making a one-time donation here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-donations   Support the podcast through the affiliate link to buy the book, Everyday Buddhism: Real-Life Buddhist Teachings & Practices for Real Change: Buy the book, Everyday Buddhism