"All concepts setting
boundaries to what we term the self are arbitrary. In the systems view,
we consist of and are sustained by interweaving currents of matter,
energy, and information that flow through us interconnecting us with our
environment and other beings. Yet, we are accustomed to identifying
ourselves only with that small arc of the flow-through that is lit, like
the narrow beam of a flashlight, by our individual subjective
awareness. But we don't have to so limit our self-perceptions... It is
as plausible to align our identity with the larger pattern,
interexistent with all beings, as to break off one segment of the
process and build our borders there."
Joanna Macy