Why is there such an emphasis on the urgency of spiritual life? I feel like I have plenty of time.

The sense of urgency comes from the profoundly transient nature of life itself. Chapter 8 cautions that birth and death are always attached, and life can depart in an instant. It is described as being as fleeting as a 'flash of lightning' or sea waves. The text points out that even a long lifespan cannot escape the movement of time, which is constantly counting down our lives. Therefore, the only time truly gained is that which is spent in holy stories and spiritual practice; all other time is considered waste. This realization is meant to spur one into action for the sake of achieving eternal happiness.