It is essential to have a definition of spirit.
I recommend that you develop your own definitions, descriptions, and images of spirit rather than borrow them from someone else.
First, answer this question for yourself: What is spirit? Write your current understanding of what spirt is. It doesn't have to be your final word or even polished. It's a place to begin. Your answer will probably change over time as you learn more about spirit.
Second, imagine spirit. How does spirit sound, look, smell, feel, and taste? What is it like? What images come to mind? Is it always the same or does it change? What happens when something or someone who was spirited no longer is?
Third, do some reading on the meaning of the word "spirit". Start with a few dictionaries. Explore the meanings of words that contain spirit. Explore, for example, the meanings of aspire, conspire, dispirit, expire, inspire, transpire, and esprit de corps.
Study the etymology of the word. Find out if there are equivalents in other languages.
Study related words like soul, mind, energy, and consciousness. Are these different words for the same thing or do these words refer to different things?
Next, rewrite your definition of spirit in light of what you have learned so far. Again, understand that as you learn more your definitions, descriptions, and images will change.
Now you are a thumonaut, an explorer of spirit.
