More Than This Body? The Riddle of the Self

For thousands of years, mystics, poets and philosophers have repeated the same message: we are not the physical frame we inhabit during our lifetime. It’s an intriguing concept and perhaps even a little confusing because, if we’re not the familiar face that stares back at us every morning in the looking glass, then who are we? Our sense of identity is deeply rooted in our physical bodies. How could we be something that isn’t immediate, tangible, visible and the source of everything we know and recognise about ourselves? And, if there really is more to us, then why does it matter?

If we turn to the ancient traditions of wisdom that aimed to shake us gently loose from our limitations, we learn that the physical body is only a tiny proportion of the totality of our consciousness. Beyond the narrow confines and definitions of who we think we are, there is a vast realm of awareness that dwells beyond the limitations of time and space. The physical body is entrusted to us as a temporary vehicle through which we may experience the intensity of this emotionally intense material existence. The vehicle, however, is not the driver. Over time, the vehicle may suffer the slow effects of degeneration. But the driver does not age. As we learn to accept the temporary nature of this physical life and become less attached to our physical sense of identity, we discover a deeper layer of self that is not reliant upon the ego. We are no longer separated from everything and everyone else. We become a natural part of all that is. When a modern sage was asked how to treat others, especially when their behaviour was hostile, antagonistic or mischievous, he replied with a smile ‘There are no others.’ It’s an important message for busy people who are living under constant pressure and wondering why life is so stressful. It’s helpful to remember that, whilst we do our best and aim to achieve our goals, nothing in this physical universe is permanent. Even great galaxies decay and die. But the real you, that abiding you, is forever.

So, take a deep breath. If reincarnation has any merit, then we’ve made these journeys thousands and thousands of times. Let’s learn to free ourselves from the temporary sense of identity that’s so closely tied to our bodies. Let’s take a deep breath and feel the timeless bliss of eternity.

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