There is all the difference in the world between thinking about something and thinking. We no doubt often read what others have to say on a particular subject, and reflect on whether their statements make sense. This will usually require some effort on our part but the thinking involved is our response to what someone else has initiated. It is a state of dependence: thinking about. But thinking is on a different level from this, and is much more difficult.

When we think, we begin to explore ideas for ourselves. We leave behind the security of other people's ideas and cast ourselves adrift on an uncharted sea. We absorb ourselves in its apparent infinity. We lose awareness of our selves and become pure psyche, or mind, no longer supported by the crutches which are provided by ideas we've taken on board. When we are thinking, time and place cease to exist.