Something to reflect on

This morning as i was sitting in silence i suddenly remembered a verse from the buddha someone used to tell me. Here is the english translation with Pali taken from the book Pali recitation for meditators by Sujiva.

I am of the nature to decay - ( Jaradhammomhi )
I have not gone beyond decay - ( Jaram Anatito )
I am of the nature to be diseased - (Vyadhi Dhammomhi)
I have not gone beyond disease - (Vyadi Anatito )
I am of the nature to die - (Marana Dhammomhi )
I have not gone beyond death - ( Marana Anatito )
All that is mine and dear - ( Sabbehi Me Piyehi Manapehi )
Will change, Will vanish - ( Nanabhavo Vinabhavo )

I am the owner of my own kamma - ( Kammassakomhi )
I am the heir of my own kamma - ( Kamma Dayado )
I am born from my own kamma - ( Kamma Yoni )
I am related to my own kamma - ( Kamma Bandhu )
I abide supported by my own kamma - ( Kamma patisarano )
Whatever kamma i shall do - ( Yam Kammam Karissami )
Wheather good or evil - (Kalyanam Va Papakam Va )
of that - ( Tassa )
I shall be the heir - ( Dayado Bhavissami )
Thus by Us - ( Evam Amhehi )
Should (these) be frequently recollected - ( Abhinham Paccavekkitabbam )
_________________________________________________

When i read this verse it reminds me of how fragile life is, and that sickness aging and death are a natural occurance. When i die.. i leave behind my wealth, my fame, my friends, family, loved ones, my car, my house my possesions and everything which i hold important. That which i have strived to gain and achieve in this material word is lost. It really does make me wonder why our world is filled with the chaos of trying to preserve our youthful looks, owning bigger houses and cars, and the need to have fame or power.

Don't get me wrong.. i'm not saying that we should all quit our jobs and live in caves. I only ask that we, take time to reflect upon our priorites, our thoughts, speech and actions. After all if you believe that what goes around comes around.. and you keep biting others, one day you'll find that your ass is getting badly chewed..

So from today onwards, i shall be determined, i shall make a greater effort to live a moderate life, do no harm to others and to develop more compassion towards all beings no matter how small. I shall waste less, recycle more and maybe even start a compost bin. I shall develop loving kindness to all which i see. And most of all, i shall be determined to hold my tongue, fingers and thoughts.. when some crazy road bully, "god bless his soul " swerves in front of me.