Highlights from "Thinkertoys"

We are conditioned to be objects. We are taught to be "me," instead of "I." When you think of yourself as "me," you are limited. The "me" is always limited because it is a passive object, rather than an active subject. The "me" doesn't act; it is acted upon by outside forces.

Every time we pretend to have an attitude and go through the motions, we trigger the emotions we create and strengthen the attitude we wish to cultivate. Think, for a moment, about social occasions-visits, dates, dinners out with friends, gatherings, birthday parties, weddings, and so on. Even when we're unhappy or depressed, these occasions force us to act as if we were happy.