In TCM, we often speak about humans being part of the interconnected whole—the web of life—that includes all of Nature’s creations, from the tiniest ant to the cosmos themselves. This quote from Albert Einstein calls us to understand the simplicity and complexity of it all.

A human being is a part of a whole, called by us, “universe,” a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest … a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.

– Albert Einstein

Learn more about consciousness and everyday life. Check out our Building Bridges for TCM Conference on September 14-17, 2017 in Reston, Virginia.