BELIEF TWO: I AM MORE THAN BRAIN AND BODY

We first learned that change is always taking place. So it is now natural to ask, just what is the most important thing to change for personal growth? Examples were given about how the body and brain changes or transforms every minute. But there is more to you than that. There is a more important part of you to consider now. 

If you are like most people you likely believe you have within you a spirit or soul. Is this that part of you that is aware of what you are doing right now? Is your spirit or soul the most important part of you or is it even the real you? Is it your essence that will last forever? Along with the body and the brain does it make decisions, choose, and direct your actions?

Of course, we know the body determines a lot of our actions as seen in the case of habitual reactions and addictions. The brain acquires logic and socialization norms to make choices. But most believe there is more to us than brain and body. We are aware of what we are thinking and doing. Ask yourself what or who is being aware of your thoughts right now?  Is it your spirit or soul?

So when it comes to self-change or growth  focus on this inner self, spirit, or soul. It is the part that is indestructible and will last forever.  It is the most fundamental and core part of us that ultimately chooses and directs what we do and become.

Thus when it comes to self- change this is where the focus should be. It is often noted that the most true and genuine change comes when there is a change of heart. We say a man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still. This expression reflects the belief that changing a person’s mind or forcing actions with bribes or threats result in only superficial transient change. Genuine change must touch the heart and soul.

Thus this second lessons hopes to help you know where to change to become a better person. Scholars, philosophers, and especially existentialists have for centuries recognized this feature of man. The human spirit with freedom to choose is the precious characteristic of humankind. The human spirit to be, and to choose is the most noted cherished, indestructible and precious part in being human. So this is where our self-change focus should start.   

SELF- INSIGHT QUESTIONS   FOR PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

BELIEF   TWO

1.     Do I sometimes feel I have a spirit or soul in addition to a body and brain?



If answering yes to the previous question then to what extent do I feel this spirit/soul directs and guides my thoughts and actions?


3.    Are there things in my life that diminish or reduce the role of my spirit/ soul in directing and influencing by thoughts and actions?



4.    How does my spirit or soul change or grow in importance during my life?




5.    How does believing I have a spirit influence daily feelings of freedom?




6.    What can I do to harmonize or help my body, brain, and spirit to work together?




7. What is the single most important belief I am taking away from this lesson?