"あなたは魂を持っているのではない あなたが魂なのだ あなたは体を持っている"

The core idea here is pretty deep, almost like something you’d ponder over a cup of coffee with a friend. It's saying that our true essence isn't tied to our physical bodies. Instead, it's our soul—our innermost being—that defines us. The body is just a vessel or a temporary home for this soul.

This line has its roots in a lot of spiritual and philosophical traditions. Think back to ancient philosophies and religions. Many of them emphasize the transient nature of our physical form and the eternal or essential nature of the soul. Although the quote is often attributed to C.S. Lewis, there's no solid evidence he actually said it. Still, it resonates with his style and themes, particularly those in "The Screwtape Letters" and "Mere Christianity," where the focus is on the spiritual journey over the physical existence.

Now, imagine this in a real-life context. Picture yourself walking through a bustling city. You see all kinds of people—different ages, races, and backgrounds. On the surface, you might just notice their appearances or what they’re doing. But if you apply the wisdom of the quote, you start to see each person as more than just a body. You see them as carrying their own unique, deeply personal soul.

Let's dive into a practical application. Think about how we often judge others based on appearances. Social media, for example, is full of this—people are constantly posting images and scrutinizing each other's looks. But if we remind ourselves that everyone we see is a soul first and foremost, our perspective shifts. We start to value inner qualities like kindness, wisdom, and love more than physical appearance. It's a powerful way to foster compassion and understanding.

So, how can you apply this in your daily life? Next time you find yourself making a snap judgment about someone based on how they look, pause. Take a moment to remind yourself that they are a soul with their own story, experiences, and feelings. This simple shift in thinking can change how you interact with others—making you more empathetic and less focused on superficial traits.

Let's bring this to life with a little story. Picture a high school student named Jamie. He's new in town and feels out of place. On his first day, he notices a group of kids who seem to be judging him based on his clothes and looks. It makes him feel like he doesn’t belong. But then, he meets Sara. Sara sees beyond his awkward exterior. She invites him to sit with her at lunch, asks about his interests, and genuinely listens. Over time, they become friends because Sara recognizes that Jamie, like everyone else, is more than just a body; he's a soul with a unique story to share.

By seeing Jamie for who he really is, Sara not only makes a new friend but also experiences the richness of looking beyond the physical. This simple act of seeing beyond the body can transform relationships and help us connect on a deeper level.

So, next time you’re out and about, or even scrolling through social media, try to remember this idea. We’re all souls walking around in bodies—each one with its own story, struggles, and dreams. It's a reminder to look deeper and connect on a level that truly matters. Isn’t that a beautiful way to live?