What is the purpose of contemplating impermanence?

Many people think that the reason for contemplating impermanence is in order to develop fear of death. But that is not why. Naturally, we all fear death. Even animals fear death.

When we meditate on impermanence, it is for the purpose of understanding that we need to embark upon and attempt to accomplish the great task of our lives without delay.

His Holiness, 17th Gyalwang Karmapa

Ogyen Trinley Dorje

From talk at Root Institute, Bodh Gaya, January 2015