This, then, is the meaning of unselfishness, that you understand yourself to be nothing but a part of something larger that you live to serve.

Understanding that self is illusion, that, like a skin cell, you have no existence apart from the larger thing that you are a part of, transforms your concept of self within the world. It is by identifying, not with your illusory self, but with your larger thing, that you come into eternal life. With such an understanding, you will still have instincts to preserve the life of your body, and you will do so when those instincts are triggered. But your life will be animated by love, you will no longer live in fear, and your life will likely be bold and with enduring good effect.