Connect: To join, link, or fasten together: unite or bind. To establish communication between; put in communication. This is what is going on within each of us actively in our waking state and less during sleep. We are continually experiencing communication between our intelligence, mind, and body. Let’s set aside the historic discussion whether this proves that our body is something completely separate from our consciousness and consider it practically. For the most part we are the only living beings which have this advanced conscious ability to realize that we are able to think outside of our own immediate existence. Animals only perceive within their own immediate environment. This is a blessing and as Jean Paul Sartre states; also a curse. We are blessed or cursed with the ability to think outside of our own self or being. This is what specifically separates us from other organic life and how we use this unique ability will define us. Comparison has two sides; we can use it to our advantage or disadvantage. We can employ it to forge ahead in our endeavors or use it as an excuse for mediocrity. Personally I was quite fortunate that although our parents had high expectations for their three children and gave us all opportunities, they accepted us for what we were able to accomplish and didn’t put undue pressure on us comparing us to others. So initially it is obvious that compared to other species we humans have this advanced level of consciousness. Now, the next decision or comparison is how will we use our innate ability to think outside of the box and use it beneficially or destructively? This is pragmatism, the philosophy named by Charles Sanders Pierce and developed by William James which is the essential American philosophy that things have to work! We make choices and decisions every waking moment and we have to analyze on a regular basis if our choices are taking us where we want to go. Otherwise, we can just remain oblivious to where our choices and decisions are taking us and make the best of it. I’m personally extremely self-critical which also has its advantages and disadvantages. It is valuable to always keep in mind the adage that doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result is unintelligent.