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Learn it your way
A short class with Sarah and her students. The other ways are under More.
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Today, we’ll dive into what we mean by the 'I' or the self. Can anyone tell me what the 'I' represents in our lives?
I think 'I' refers to our consciousness or who we really are.
Exactly! The 'I' is our real self, the knower, seer, and doer, intangible yet essential. So, what functions does the 'I' perform?
It desires things, thinks about them, and decides what to do.
Great! Remember the acronym DTE, which stands for Desire, Think, and Expect. This can help us recall the key functions of 'I'.
Can you explain a bit more about desires and how they influence our actions?
Sure! Desires initiate actions, and our thoughts revolve around these desires. If we desire something, we think and analyze how to achieve it.
So, the 'I' is responsible for our happiness and well-being?
Yes! A clear and content 'I' contributes significantly to our overall happiness. Summing up, the 'I' is the catalyst for our actions and decisions, deeply influencing our life experiences.
Now let's talk about the body. How would you describe the body's role?
The body is the physical part of us, right? It needs food and care.
Absolutely! It’s a material entity that fulfills the needs we create through our consciousness. What are some needs that the body has?
Food, water, and shelter.
And exercise too!
Correct! The body acts purely on the intentions of the 'I' but does not form desires itself. How do you think neglecting the body might affect the 'I'?
Maybe it leads to confusion and unhappiness since the 'I' won't be able to function properly?
Exactly! A healthy body supports a clear 'I'. In summary, the body is crucial as it allows the 'I' to express desires and live fully.
Let’s explore the co-existence of 'I' and the body. Why is this relationship important?
If one is not functioning well, it affects the other!
Exactly! 'I' needs a healthy body to express desires, while the body needs clarity from the 'I'. What could cause disharmony between the two?
Like addiction or unhealthy habits?
Yes! When the 'I' is misled or the body is abused, confusion and unhappiness arise. Can anyone think of activities that promote harmony between the two?
Practicing meditation or yoga!
Eating healthy food is also important!
Very good! Meditation helps to calm the 'I' and energize the body. Remember: when 'I' and body function together in harmony, we experience well-being and inner peace.
The 'I' is the seer, the doer, and the knower, the body's the car that takes you over!
Once upon a time, a wise owl named 'I' guided a lost rabbit, Body, through the forest of life, helping it find food and shelter, illustrating their interdependence.
DTE: Desire, Think, Expect to remember the functions of 'I'.
BIC: Body is a Channel for the 'I'.
Term
'I'
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Term
Body
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Term
Harmony
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Desire
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The self or consciousness that is the knower, seer, and doer, responsible for desires and thoughts.
The physical entity made up of cells and organs, which fulfills material needs.
A state of balance where 'I' and body work together effectively.
A longing or want for something, which initiates action.
The ability of 'I' to manage desires and actions effectively.
This section explains the co-existence of 'I' (consciousness) and 'Body' (physical entity) as foundational to understanding human beings.
The concept of the human being as a union of 'I' and 'Body' underlines the importance of recognizing one's true nature and the role of the physical body. It addresses the need for harmony between consciousness and physical existence to achieve holistic well-being.
In understanding human beings, the section emphasizes that we are not just our physical bodies, but the conscious 'I' that interacts with and through our bodies. The 'I' is characterized by desires, thoughts, and emotions, while the body consists of tangible, material needs. The co-existence of these two aspects is essential for a balanced existence, influencing mental and physical well-being. The text explores how the 'I' and the body depend on each other for their proper functioning and that understanding this relationship is crucial for achieving a harmonious life.