We all have two different minds neurobiologically: One driven by the fearful, judgmental brain amygdala, and the other centered in the wise, reasonable prefrontal cortex (which connects intimately with parts creating compassion). They are different minds because they compete with each other on functional scanning: when one is activated, the other is inhibited. Amygdala overdrive causes health problems (both physical and mental), which improve with spiritual practices that activate the wise prefrontal cortex, creating wellbeing and inhibiting fear and judgmentalism. All this correlates highly with Jesus’ teachings about resilience. Awareness of the differences allows choice of which mind to feed.

Lee Smith