It’s like trying to split an atom: if you succeed, it may well explode in your face.

We are so used to splitting hairs to define terms and concepts that we miss the forest for the trees.

Are there any other similes, metaphors or sayings that will convey my message?

Know Thyself

From the Acts of John 94-96, in New Testament Apocrypha II 227-232, as quoted in The Gnostic Gospels by Elaine Pagel (page 19):

“Since it has been said that you are my twin and true companion, examine yourself so that you may understand who you are . . . I am the knowledge of the truth. So while you accompany me, although you do not understand (it), you already have come to know, and you will be called ‘the one who knows himself.’ For whoever has not known himself has known nothing, but whoever has known himself has simultaneously achieved knowledge about the depth of all things.”

Could it be any clearer than that?