The Way of Integrity: Finding the Path to Your True Self

by Martha Beck

Anything you do solely to influence others, rather than to express your true nature, is a hustle.

Our worst psychological suffering comes from thoughts that we genuinely believe, while simultaneously knowing they aren’t true.

The part of the brain that causes us to feel that familiar ways are right, no matter what, is older, bigger, and stronger than the rational mind.

Whenever we inquire deeply enough into the truth about our suffering, we arrive at the place where, without changing direction, we stop descending and start ascending.

For all of us, passing the center of Earth means connecting very directly with that core lie: I’m alone. This is the chain that binds you to your deepest suffering.

You are infinitely worthy. You are infinitely precious. You have always been enough. You will always be enough. There is no place you don’t belong. You are lovable. You are loved. You are love.

When you feel like a victim, always suspect that you may be caught in your own errors of righteousness.

To stay on the path of integrity and avoid getting stuck in repetitive cycles of violence, we must refuse to join our change-back attackers in their sense of victimhood.

attacks cause emotional suffering only if a part of us believes them.