We have space psychologically and, for most of us, it is very limited. Everyone seems to have a space between the so-called central “I” (or “me”) and the “other” thoughts that this “I” is purportedly thinking. People do not realize that this “I” (or “me”) is neither central nor truly “in control” of the so-called “other” thoughts. The image of a center is just a projection of the psychological process and (as such) it is not truly manipulating anything. However, unfortunately, minds conditioned and taught to perceive through this illusory mode of operation tend to be very uncomfortable about going beyond it. The “I” was not designed for one to have insight and holistic perception; the “I” formed as an extension for self-preservation. Preservation and care for the body are crucial and very necessary. “Thinking” was to tool to help in regard to that. But then thought began to make itself out to be the essence of the organism. Then it began projecting the “I,” the “me,” imagining the “I” or the “me” to be a central regulatory entity that dominates or produces the so-called subservient thoughts.
People have, psychologically, created a space between the “I” and other thoughts, (thoughts that the “I” allegedly manipulates). They have space between the perceiver and “that which is perceived.” Such (limited) space is often internal (i.e., between the “me” and the other thoughts). It also, all too often, deals with the external… “me” separate from the animal that is hunted by me.
Going beyond the “I” due to keen insight is what negates these false constructs within the mind. Going beyond the “I,” the “so-called center,” the “me,” is not dangerous. On the contrary, it is only a very intelligent, aware mind that does so. And in so doing, it transcends friction, separation, conflict, illusory fabrications, and internal falsities. Then the body and the mind are in perfect harmony beyond the need to control. This lack of control is not chaos; on the contrary, it is an orderly movement involving insight from a profound whole.
When most people observe, they are observing fragmentarily, with — and from — learned separation. They are observing through a conditioned screen of thought/thinking (involving labels, categorization, and separative distance). This separative structure is of a very crude nature and it is very limited. Such limitation allows very little room for true joy and insight.
Deep compassion occurs when the mind transcends the illusoriness of the supposedly separate “central I.” When other life forms are not merely seen from a separative distance, then a real (much more profound) kind of intelligence manifests; it may involve a space that is not limited. This manifestation is of order and right action. Such right action is not merely a series of dull, learned routines reoccurring as mundane, dead-from-the-heart-up reactions.
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
You are so right Tom. The illusive “I” gets us into an enormous amount of trouble and distorts our lives… the problem is that most people don’t seem to care. it’s me, me, me ad nauseum. Those of us that are fortunate enough to be able to make the distinction you speak of are far and few between…. Once mind/body are freed from the tyranny of the “I”whole worlds open up. I am convinced that only then can we really participate in nature’s wonders. With that much said I want to make it clear that I fall into the old ego construct too often, although as I age I see through myself more easily! Great post!
“Me, me, me ad nauseum.” Ha, that put a smile on this face. 🙂
Yes, as you age, see through yourself more easily. It is prudent, in all probability, to be very honest internally and not pretend that the disorder isn’t there.
So glad that you likely have seen some real depth to this blog, beyond the picture. 🙂
Oh I am so glad I made you smile! And yes, your blog has depth – that’s why I read it…. I think of you Tom… I only follow one other blog regularly and its one I post in!
Good post, and perfect image to go with it!
Thank you, Mary! 🙂
That mushroom is beautiful and also has medicinal value. It is more than it appears to be. Thanks for your thoughts and observations, Tom.
Yes, Siobhan, medicinal value. I once chomped on a Turkey Tail when i was sick. But the bird kicked me in the chin.
🙂
You are so funny! 😀
Tom – I think this generation seems to be one of “me, me, me, me” from the time they are young. I wasn’t raised like that, having grown up in a “kids should be seen and not heard environment” and that upbringing stuck with me into adulthood. I am glad I am compassionate for others and don’t dwell on myself. I like the Turkey Tail Arms and suspect you got this 2021 photo in our mild January before things got ugly in early February.
Yes indeed Tom, and what a fascinating photo subject.