Chapter 14 uses several metaphors to explain its teachings. Can you describe the analogies of 'pieces of wood floating in a river' and being 'gripped by the serpent of Time'?

Chapter 14 employs vivid metaphors to illustrate the transient nature of existence. The text states that people are "gripped by the serpent of Time," which powerfully conveys that time is an inescapable, all-consuming force, making genuine moments of happiness rare in a life constantly moving toward its end. Another key analogy is that of family members—mother, father, siblings, spouse, and children—being like "pieces of wood floating in a river's current that meet together." As this metaphor from Chapter 14 explains, they appear united for a brief moment, but a single wave can scatter them, and they may never meet again. This illustrates the temporary and impermanent nature of all worldly relationships and attachments.