Just because our individual identities are ephemeral or small does not mean we shouldn't enjoy them, make good use of them, or treat them well while we have them. We're given these small and singular identities for a good reason; being an individual allows you to do things that are very precise and focus. Think of ego or identity as a tool, or a special power, for achieving specific tasks, missions, algorithms, medical advances, and broadway musicals.
Steve used the analogy of the body and cells; how about another analogy, two knobs labeled "coarse" and "fine". One has a more dramatic overall effect, but the other one can zero in on something exact once you're in the ballpark. Our egos are like that fine-tuning knob. |