"Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter"

The essence of the quote is all about recognizing the deeper, more profound aspects of our existence beyond just our physical bodies. It’s a reminder that we’re not just flesh and bone—we’re beings filled with light, energy, and potential. It's a call to see ourselves and others in a more spiritual and enlightened way.

This quote comes from Yoda in "The Empire Strikes Back," a film in the Star Wars saga. He’s teaching Luke Skywalker about the Force, emphasizing that the true power and essence of life is beyond the physical realm. Yoda, being a wise character, often spoke in riddles and metaphors to impart wisdom. This line is particularly poignant because it pushes Luke—and us—to look beyond what’s tangible and obvious.

Now, let’s paint a practical picture of what this means with a real-life example. Think about a time when you felt truly connected to someone. Not just through words or actions, but on a deeper level. For instance, imagine a moment when you were with a close friend or loved one during a tough time. Maybe they were grieving a loss or facing a difficult challenge. Sure, you were there physically, but there was something more at play. The comfort they felt from your presence wasn't just from the physical side—it was the warmth, the empathy, the unspoken understanding that made all the difference. That’s the "luminous being" part, the connection that transcends the "crude matter" of our physical forms.

Applying this wisdom in everyday life means striving to see and nurture that deeper connection in our interactions. When you’re dealing with people, try to look beyond their surface actions and appearances. Recognize the energy they bring, their potential, their dreams and fears. One way to do this is by practicing empathy. When someone shares their problems, don’t just listen—feel. Put yourself in their shoes, imagine their struggles, and respond from a place of genuine understanding.

Here's a relatable scenario to illustrate this concept. Picture yourself at work. You have a colleague who’s always grumpy and snapping at others. It’s easy to write them off as just being difficult. But imagine if you took a moment to think about what might be behind that behavior. Maybe they’re dealing with something heavy at home or struggling with self-doubt. Approaching them with kindness, offering a listening ear, or even a simple smile can start to break down those barriers. You might not see immediate results, but slowly, that person might begin to feel seen and understood—not just as a cranky coworker, but as a complex, luminous being facing their own battles.

To sum up, remembering that we are "luminous beings" encourages us to look beyond the obvious, the physical, and the superficial. It’s about tapping into the deeper, more meaningful connections that make life rich and fulfilling. So next time you’re interacting with someone, try to see their light—because there’s always more to a person than meets the eye. And who knows? You might just find that recognizing the light in others brings out the best in yourself too.