That makes the whole difference. When we are deeply absorbed in reading a novel, and identify ourselves with the events depicted therein, we do not feel the little pain in the leg, or notice the squirrel jump over our body. This self-identification with the events in the book, lifts us above bodily and environmental consciousness. Identification with our own body, or possessions, or persons, can be dangerous and destroy our peace, happiness and progress. Beloved of God, aim at this self-identification, and you shall be immortal.
Clouds appear and disappear, the sky remains for ever.
Thoughts come and go, mind remains. Feelings arise and subside, heart remains. Love-affairs appear and disappear, love remains. Bodily being is born, and will no more be, life remains. Universes appear and disappear, God remains.