Your body and “self” represents one of Buddha’s fundamental teachings.
Suffering arises because of our attachment to the five skandhas, our sense
experiences. However, these senses change with time. They are not
permanent. So form is not permanent, and therefore not self. Reactivity,
entrancement, self-intent and, well you know the rest. Where does that
leave us? On the surface this concept appears to be quite depressing. But
after reflection and meditation on the subject you realize that these
teachings are a cleverly laid plan. A plan by the Buddha to have you
realize that attachment to self, the skandhas is a distraction that leads to
frustration and dissatisfaction. When you stop focusing on these
distractions you have more time to spend on constructive habits. This is
where happiness increases and you begin to approach Nibbana.
So, the body … a good thing or a bad thing? I expect we’d be sunk without
one, but the trick is:
You've got to accentuate the positive,
Eliminate the negative.
And latch on to the affirmative,
Don't mess with Mister In-Between.
Don
