Impermanence

In a sense, the idea that “There is no permanence” can be very comforting in a very negative way (106). This could mean that it is impossible for us to leave an everlasting impression, so why bother trying. If the battle is futile, why fight at all? Rather than waste our time in an attempt to leave our mark, we should enjoy the ephemera and simple happiness that life presents us. This small joy that we receive is what makes life worth-while and gives us meaning.

Some view life as pointless, seeing as it comes full circle, but it is the 359 degrees that are important, not the degree that both starts and ends our journey. We derive purpose from the journey on which we embark, which includes the small details, such as a person we meet or a moment filled with joy. For instance, in my life I will not leave any lasting mark or affect the world significantly. However, I do not give up because I, like most other people, have realized that I can create great happiness. Food, sleep, and math are all tiny factors that I enjoy greatly and make the battle worth-while. For Gilgamesh, he felt importance because of his accomplishments. When referring to the city of Uruk, the story states, “This too was the work of Gilgamesh, the king, who knew the countries of the world. He was wise, he saw mysteries and knew secret things, he brought us a tale of the days before the flood” (117). This proves that we can take pride in our minor accomplishments. He may not live forever and be forgotten soon after his demise, but Gilgamesh can take pride in his city and knowledge, which suffices.

It is important for humans to remember that seeking permanence is futile simply because our society is very fast-paced. One day an itouch is the new hot item over which everyone pines, however no fewer than one year later the ipad overshadowed the obsolete itouch. I know that my eighteen-month-old ipod is considered ancient by most people, so of course I will be getting a new one very soon. This ipod will be gone before its second birthday, which demonstrates the fleeting nature of society. That is why it is very important to understand that we must enjoy every moment and plan for s short-term burst of life rather than waste this ephemeral life trying to extend it.

In an attempt to compensate for our lack of physical permanence, many try to develop fame which will spiritually maintain our existence. In The Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh struggles to discover the secret to immortality, when in reality he is immortal through this very story. Although he has been dead for thousands of years, his story maintains his existence, thus accomplishing his goal. Similarly, most researchers try to make new discoveries in science to create fame. They try to improve our society of course, but unnecessary steps, such as naming bugs after oneself, is just evidence of our innate desire to be remembered and eternal.