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Problems only exist in the human mind.
Anthony De Mello
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Problems are a creation of our thoughts, not external realities.

This quote by Anthony De Mello emphasizes the idea that the challenges and obstacles we face are largely a product of our perceptions and thoughts. It suggests that our mindset and interpretation of situations play a pivotal role in defining what we consider to be problems, indicating that by changing our thoughts, we can alter our experiences of reality.

Themes

ProblemsMindPerceptionThoughtReality

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about overcoming mental barriers.

More from Anthony De Mello

When the sage points at the moon, all that the idiot sees is the finger.
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Perfect love casts out fear. Where there is love there are no demands, no expectations, no dependency. I do not demand that you make me happy; my happiness does not lie in you. If you were to leave me, I will not feel sorry for myself; I enjoy your company immensely, but I do not cling.
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The master never seemed to have his fill of gazing at his firstborn child. "What do you want him to be when he grows up?" someone asked. "Outrageously happy," said the master.
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The genius of a composer is found in the notes of his music; but analyzing the notes will not reveal his genius. The poet's greatness is contained in his words; yet the study of his words will not disclose his inspiration. God reveals himself in creation; but scrutinize creation as minutely as you wish, you will not find God, any more than you will find the soul through careful examination of your body.
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What is a loving heart? A loving heart is sensitive to the whole of life, to all persons; a loving heart doesn't harden itself to any persons or things.
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Those who make no mistakes are making the biggest mistakes of all - they are attempting nothing new.
Anthony De MelloRead

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