“We often are taught to only focus outward in our lives. To devote our focus solely to the things outside of ourselves.”

Philosophical Engineering

“Well, I want to be a good person and help others.” I think that’s what he means. And is that a bad thing?

“Which is perfect, my friend, but because of the traditional programming, we often neglect to help ourselves first.”

This reminds me of the flight attendant’s speech as a plane taxis to the runway for takeoff: In the event of the cabin losing pressure, masks will drop from the compartments above you…place your mask on first, before assisting others. I guess it makes sense. If I were dead, how could I help anyone else?

Book excerpt and modified. The Impression of a Good Life: Philosophical Engineering