Non-binary impermanence refers to the concept that things are constantly changing and evolving, and nothing is truly permanent. This means that even things that appear stable and fixed can shift and alter over time. Ethical resilience, then, is the ability to maintain one's morals and values despite these changes. In the face of existential change, it can be difficult to remain true to oneself and one's principles.
Non-binary impermanence reveals an important lesson about ethical resilience - the more flexible one is, the better able they will be to adapt to new situations and challenges.
One way to think about this is through the metaphor of a tree. A tree may seem like a solid, immovable object, but its roots can shift with the soil, its leaves can fall in autumn, and its branches can break in storms. Yet, the tree remains alive because it has deep roots, strong trunks, and sturdy limbs. Similarly, if we as individuals can cultivate flexibility and resilience within ourselves, we can weather many different types of changes while staying grounded in our core beliefs.
This doesn't mean that we should abandon all our principles or become wishy-washy in our moral stances. Rather, it means that we need to be open to new perspectives, willing to listen to others, and willing to revise our understanding of the world when necessary.
Let's say someone holds the belief that abortion is always wrong. If they encounter a situation where a pregnant person faces a life-threatening condition and must choose between their own survival and their unborn child's, they might reconsider their position. They might still believe that abortion is generally wrong, but they would understand that there are exceptions to every rule. This kind of nuance allows us to remain true to our values while also being responsive to changing circumstances.
Non-binary impermanence reminds us that things are never completely stable or fixed - even those things we thought were certain. It also encourages us to embrace change and adaptability rather than resist them. By doing so, we can build up ethical resilience and navigate difficult situations with grace and integrity.
What does non-binary impermanence reveal about ethical resilience in the face of existential change?
Non-binary impermanence refers to an understanding that there is no permanent state of being as all things are constantly changing and evolving over time. This can be seen as both liberating and terrifying, and it challenges our assumptions about identity, purpose, and meaning. In the context of ethical resilience, this concept suggests that we must learn to adapt and respond to change with flexibility and openness rather than rigidity and resistance.