The beginning of immortality...

"Intellectual knowledge exists in and of the brain.

Because the brain is part of the body, which must one

day expire, this collection of facts, however large

and impressive, will expire as well.

Insight, however, is a function of the spirit.

Because your spirit follows you through cycle after

cycle of life, death, and rebirth, you have the

opportunity of cultivating insight in an ongoing fashion.

Refined over time, insight becomes pure, constant,

and unwavering. 
This is the beginning of immortality."

from the Hua Hu Ching