Why the Concept of Non-Self or Emptiness is Useful

One thing is pretty clear: Our identity is something that is both cherished and important. Does the importance we place on identity come at a cost?

I believe it does come at a cost when the importance of identity results in us believing we are in some way separate from everyone else and indeed our home. A growing separateness from others, through strong identity, and the growing distance we place between ourselves and nature can only exacerbate human loneliness. I believe loneliness is becoming an increasing problem that can be addressed through the understanding of non-self and emptiness.

We must think of ourselves as being empty of a separate self and full of everything else

To better understand emptiness, all we need to do is consider what it has taken for us to be alive. Can we be alive without the sun? Can we have formed in our mothers womb without absorbing all the necessary elements from nature through our mothers blood? If any elements had been missing or deficient, we will have not developed properly and may not have survived. Can a tree form without water? Can a cloud form without the warmth of the sun?

You see, the universe has provided us with all the necessary ingredients to be human. As such, it’s impossible for us to separate ourselves from the planet and the wider universe on any level. It’s where we have come from and where we will return. This is the definition of emptiness or non-self.

From a personal standpoint, when I meditate and embrace my connectedness to my home (Earth), I feel a sense of wonder and ease

It’s easy to understand how and why the ego strives for a separate identity. It’s important for us to feel special, and we place great value on our identity. This is fine, provided it isn’t adding to any sense of loneliness or causing us to distance ourselves from the very things we depend on for our survival.

Underneath all of our thoughts, beliefs, and identities we form, there is only pure awareness. We all bleed red blood and cry salty tears. No matter what our outward appearance or deep-rooted beliefs are, we’re all the same underneath. Embracing this can only help us to build better connections to others and our home.