A growing debate questions the traditional scientific approach to understanding consciousness, suggesting that it may not be a mere product of brain cell activity. Rather, consciousness could be an ongoing process of striving, caring and achieving, much like our pursuit of joy and other human values. This perspective proposes that consciousness is less about feelings and more about perceiving and valuing the world around us, allowing for its presence in our lives. The key to unlocking this mystery lies in understanding how we create a sense of self and our surroundings through care and attention, rather than simply searching for neural explanations. This shift in perspective could redefine not only our understanding of consciousness but also our view on life itself as an ongoing process of growth and creation.