From a scientific perspective, the human body is remarkably empty. Atoms, the building blocks of all matter, are almost entirely vacant, with a tiny nucleus surrounded by a vast cloud of electrons. This emptiness extends into our cells, where organelles and cytoplasm coexist within a largely open environment, and to our organs and tissues, where even the most densely packed structures contain gaps and interstitial spaces. This leads us to the surprising conclusion that humans could be as much as 99% empty space.
If our physical form is so empty, what fills the void? I propose that the intangibles—love, soul, and other unseen elements—make us whole. These non-material aspects give life its richness and depth. Focusing on what fills our empty spaces gives us a more profound appreciation for the elements that truly define us as human beings.
The Weightlessness of the Physical
Despite the complex structures within our bodies, the physical components are relatively minimal when compared to the vast emptiness they occupy. This observation has significant implications for how we view ourselves and our priorities. If so much of our physical existence is empty, why do we often emphasize the external and the material?
Society frequently fixates on physical appearances, possessions, and status—elements that seem solid but, in reality, are as fleeting as the subatomic particles that make up our atoms. Understanding how much of our existence is composed of empty space prompts us to question the value we place on these external factors. Shouldn’t we focus instead on what fills those spaces—the relationships, experiences, and values that give our lives meaning?
Filling the Void with Intangibles
Given the emptiness in our physical structure, what truly makes us human? It’s not our muscles, bones, or intricate nervous systems. Instead, the intangibles—the love we share, the soul that guides us, and the sense of purpose—drive us forward. These elements cannot be seen or measured, yet they are the forces that shape our interactions, our communities, and our sense of self.
Love, in all its forms, fills the spaces between us, connecting us to others and fostering a sense of belonging. It creates bonds that are far stronger than any physical structure. The soul, often described as a person’s essence, gives us identity and purpose. It is the source of our creativity, empathy, and resilience.
When we focus on these intangibles, the empty spaces within us are transformed into opportunities for growth and connection. They become the canvases on which we paint the stories of our lives, the vast expanses where we explore the depth of human experience.
A Shift in Perspective
Recognizing that we are mainly space invites us to shift our perspective. Instead of worrying about the minimal physical structure that makes up our bodies, we can focus on what truly matters: the relationships we build, the love we share, and the values we uphold. By placing more emphasis on these intangibles, we create a life that is rich in meaning, even if our physical form is sparse.
Realizing that we are primarily empty space can be liberating in a world that often encourages us to prioritize material possessions and outward appearances. It reminds us that what truly defines us is not our physicality but the intangible elements that fill our hearts and minds. By embracing this perspective, we can live more authentically, with greater compassion and understanding for ourselves and those around us.
Conclusion
Humans may be up to 99% empty space, and the love, soul, and purpose truly make us who we are. Instead of fixating on the physical 1%, we should focus on the intangibles that fill the void and give our lives meaning. These elements bind us together, drive us forward, and make life worth living.