The self says, I am; The heart says, I am less; The spirit says, you are Nothing.
Time marks us while we are marking time.
I'm sure I've been a toad, one time or another. With bats, weasels, worms...I rejoice in the kinship. Even the caterpillar I can love, and the various vermin.
What falls away is always. And is near.
(I measure time by how a body sways.)
Teach as an old fishing guide takes out a beginner.