Devapriya, in Buddhism the body and mind, or mind and matter are considered to be ultimate realities.  I have been incarnating as mind and matter for time immemorial.  At least I accept that on the basis of having faith and confidence in Buddhist scripture.  

Eventually a stage is reached where there is a stilling of formations, in which matter and mind no longer arise. This is the state in which transcendence can occur. At this point, there is a shift to the supramundane. Until then, all entities that have come to be, are subject to work and practice and struggle with the sense of identity, the mind and the forms which are assumed.  All of these are constantly shifting.  Of great significance is the fact that so long as I assume mind and matter as "my permanent self", rebirth continues on the basis of receiving vipaka (results) in line with karma (actions) performed in the very real spheres of ultimate mind and matter.This is the level of my current understanding and I pray I have not misrepresented the Buddha's teachings. 

I tend to agree with you that we have very little choice in the matter to be or not to be.  I sort of think that we were randomly flung out into ignorance and have been stuck here, wandering in samsara ever since.  The results (vipaka) of my karma (action) led me to Buddhism in a very real and intimate way in this lifetime.  My preceptor, Ajahn Chaiya, told me that I had sufficient paramis (virtues) that enabled me to come to his monastery and receive teachings.  

Each entity has acquired different vipaka based on karma performed, and so we wander in samsara along the ruts and tendencies created by these. I wish you well!  I do not wish to argue or incite. At this Forum we are all fortunate to be spiritual seekers.  Good luck too all!