THE HUMAN PERSON AS AN EMBODIED SPIRIT

Limitations of the Human Persons

 Human persons are biologically deficient beings. This means that we are not equipped with the
best physical attributes among all the beings in the world.
 Human persons do not have the natural ability to fly.
 Human persons cannot also breathe underwater without the aid of a breathing apparatus.

DEFINITION OF TERMS
Possibility is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as: 1. a chance that something might exist,
happen, or be true; 2. the state or fact of being possible; 3. something that might be done or might
happen; 4. something that is possible; 5. abilities or qualities that could make someone or something
better in the future.
Transcendence means: 1. exceeding usual limits or SURPASSING; 2. extending or lying beyond the
limits of ordinary experience; 3. in Kantian philosophy : being beyond the limits of all possible
experience and knowledge

THE HUMAN PERSON AS AN EMBODIED SPIRIT

•As an embodied spirit, it provides us numerous opportunities to explore everything around us and
even within us. Though we enjoy a number of advantages compared to other beings, still there are a
number of things that we naturally cannot do.
• Despite these natural limitations, we have used our intellect to devise means to achieve several
feats. We now use airplanes to fly, employ scuba gear to swim underwater for extended periods, and
invented tools and machines to lift gear weights and perform other feats well beyond our physical
capabilities.

THE HUMAN PERSON AS AN EMBODIED SPIRIT

 The ability to surpass limits is called transcendence. Our mind is an important tool that allows us
to go beyond many of our physical limits. As persons, we are able to exercise our imagination
and reflection to go beyond our own thoughts and experiences.
 Although we have physical limitations, we can transcend them because of our spiritual
dimensions. Being physically limited in our abilities does not prevent us from hoping for or
aspiring to greater things.
 Transcendence also means overcoming oneself or being in control even if the body reminds us of
certain tendencies. Although these tendencies are felt, the person can govern them and ensure
that they are exercised within the bounds of reason.

THE HUMAN PERSON AS AN EMBODIED SPIRIT

 A person who has no control over his or her eating habit eventually becomes unhealthy and
develops an eating disorder.
 A person who allows the pleasures of dangerous drugs to rule over him becomes a drug addict.

IDENTIFIED LIMITATIONS OF THE MEMBERS OF THE GROUP ACTION TOWARDS TRANSCENDENCE

 In summary, the essence of transcendence is to acknowledge our limitations, identify
possibilities for development, and change ourselves for the better. It maybe physical or
behavioral change such as trying a new sport or hobby or adopting a healthier life style.
 You can also take on a mental challenge such as learning a new skill or doing better in your
studies.
 Our possibilities for transcendence give us the opportunity to work toward becoming better
versions of ourselves.