What are we not?

We are not our body When we look in the mirror the face we so easily identify as "us" is not who we are. Even our words give us clues to this. When somebody dies we may make reference to "their body." If our body wasn't separate from us, what is really us, and why do we make this distinction? We must conclude that we are not our body.

We are not our desires When we look around at the things we would like to possess or accomplish, we are driven to action. Yet even as we attain our desires, the longing that we felt for it fades, and something else captures our attention. But do these desires and accomplishment change us? I think not. Behind every desire the ultimate end we are always seeking is fulfillment.

We are not our feelings How about our feelings? We know that everyone has them. But we also know that they come and go like waves on a shore, always gaining, always losing. But like the beach and water that remain intact in there content, our spirits remain constant in ebb and flow of life's ups and downs.

We are not our thoughts Perhaps the great thinkers have given us a path to our identity with, "I think therefore I am." But do these thoughts really make up our identity and existence. Where does a thought come from? And where does it go when I am done thinking it? Still as these thoughts flicker in my mind I can't help but wonder if there is still more to us than daydreams.

What are we then?

We are being Knowing that we observe the world, we must conclude that there is a being that is doing the observing. This "being" is us. As the scenery changes, the Seer remains the same.

We are intelligence While our thoughts are not the building blocks, creating our Self. Understanding and intelligence allows us to grow and expand. Seeking that bit of understanding, that principle behind our actions. is a prize itself.

We are intention While our desires may change, our intentions remain the same. While we are children we seek toys. As we grow we seek friends. Eventually we begin to seek Love. And looking back to the toys and the friends we know that Love was our intention all along.

We are energy While our body may decay, the energy that we consist of remains. for energy cannot be created or destroyed... it can only be changed.

So what?

We are peace Resting in the fact that our true self lives in the world of spirit, we can face every emotion with peace.

We are knowledge Seeking understanding of the truly important things in life drives us forward. For this knowledge is the only thing that is truly ours.

We are serenity Knowing that Love is our ultimate goal. We can see the suffering around us and share that Love with others.

We are the Force For we are all one in spirit and are never truly alone.

For after all is said and done: We are Jedi.