Science has so far been unable to tell us how self-aware dogs are, much less whether they have anything like our conscious thoughts. This is not surprising, since neither scientists nor philosophers can agree about what the consciousness of humans consists of, let alone that of animals.

I know from my own clinical work that when people are beaten and hurt, they numb out so that they cant feel anymore.

To be shame-bound means that whenever you feel any feeling, need or drive, you immediately feel ashamed. The dynamic core of your human life is grounded in your feelings, needs and drives. When these are bound by shame, you are shamed to the core.

Recovery begins with embracing our pain and taking the risk to share it with others. We do this by joining a group and talking about our pain.

Chronically dysfunctioning families are also delusional. Delusion is sincere denial.

Shame is the root of all addictions.

It's essential to tell the truth at all times. This will reduce life's pain. Lying distorts reality. All forms of distorted thinking must be corrected.