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About this quote

What does it mean?
Humans often identify with their physical bodies, but the true immortal self is the spirit.
In plain terms
Do not confuse your temporary body with your eternal spirit.
What can you take from it?
Focus on spiritual growth rather than physical identity.

Where it applies

  • grief
  • aging
  • existential crisis

Putting it to work

  • mindfulness practices
  • legacy building
  • physical detachment

Questions to consider

  • What part of you do you fear losing?
  • How do you define yourself?

Another view

It can dismiss the importance of physical health and lived experience.

More from Swami Vivekananda

  1. The mind is but the subtle part of the body. You must retain great strength in your mind and words.

    Permalink to quote #143
  2. The more you think of yourself as shining immortal spirit, the more eager you will be to be absolutely free of matter, body, and senses. This is the intense de…

    Permalink to quote #145
  3. The less passion there is, the better we work. The calmer we are, the better for us and the more the amount of work we can do. When we let loose our feelings, …

    Permalink to quote #142

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