Ripples in the water are commonly used as metaphors for something that disturbs life. When something falls into water, it causes a ripple effect. This can be used as a metaphor for when something happens in our life that changes its course, or causes stress, or disturbs our inner peace. But a ripple also represents something that is momentary, passing. Ripples, as problems, come and go, and it is up to us to wait for them to pass and regain our previous calmed state.