Because we identify ourselves with the body, we take for granted that our skin layer is our boundary line. When we see suffering around us, we either take a “that’s not my problem” approach or we reach out to help out of compassion. These different responses form who we are from a karmic perspective.

If we are indifferent to the suffering, that reinforces the boundary line that we have conceptualized, not only cutting us off from the other but stunting our possible growth. If we selflessly assist the other, our action opens us up to our greater self-awareness. This is what is known as “karma yoga,” which is one of the four main pillars of spiritual practices. (See my book “Pure One,” for more information on this topic).

The truth is that we are unlimited spiritual beings–unlimited in every way. Embodied in the human form, our awareness of our true nature is veiled so that we can have the human experience that we have planned. Still, we have the potential of achieving full awareness even while in human form.

Because in truth we are not limited by our bodies, our conscious awareness is not necessarily limited to our five physical senses. We can feel the suffering of others. We can also sense the conscious awareness of the trees, birds and other life forms in a natural setting.

In truth, we are not separate from anything in our environment. Remembering this truth will help to guide our actions as we go about our day.