Meaning: This quote by Anthony de Mello, a spiritual teacher and writer, challenges the common assumption that thinking is solely a function of the mind. Instead, de Mello suggests that our thinking is actually influenced by our emotions and intuition, which are associated with the heart. According to this perspective, the heart dictates the conclusion, and the mind then rationalizes and defends it. This idea challenges the traditional view of the mind as the sole source of reasoning and decision-making, and it invites us to consider the role of emotions and intuition in shaping our thoughts and beliefs.

The quote implies that our emotions and intuition play a significant role in shaping our thoughts and decisions. While it is commonly believed that rationality and logic guide our thinking, de Mello suggests that our emotions, desires, and intuitive impulses often lead the way, with the mind then working to justify and support the conclusions reached by the heart. This challenges the notion of purely logical reasoning and emphasizes the influence of our emotional and intuitive selves in the process of forming beliefs and making decisions.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the interplay between the heart and the head in the process of thinking. It suggests that the heart, representing our emotions and intuition, takes the lead in shaping our conclusions, while the mind, responsible for rationalizing and providing reasoning, follows the dictates of the heart. This dynamic relationship between the heart and the head suggests that our thoughts and beliefs are not solely the product of logical analysis but are also influenced by our emotional and intuitive responses to the world around us.

In the context of interpersonal relationships and decision-making, this quote has significant implications. It suggests that our initial reactions and intuitive responses, which originate from the heart, are powerful forces in shaping our thoughts and decisions. This challenges the traditional emphasis on logical reasoning and encourages us to consider the role of emotions and intuition in our interactions and choices. Understanding this dynamic can lead to greater self-awareness and empathy in our relationships, as we recognize the influence of emotions and intuition on our own thinking and that of others.

Moreover, this quote invites us to reflect on the nature of belief formation and the processes underlying our thought patterns. By acknowledging the role of the heart in shaping our conclusions, we are prompted to examine the deeper motivations and influences that underlie our beliefs. This perspective encourages us to look beyond purely cognitive processes and consider the emotional and intuitive factors that contribute to our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, Anthony de Mello's quote challenges the conventional view of thinking as solely a function of the mind and emphasizes the role of the heart in shaping our conclusions. By acknowledging the influence of emotions and intuition on our thoughts and decisions, this quote invites us to consider the interplay between the heart and the head in the process of thinking. It encourages us to recognize the significance of our emotional and intuitive selves in shaping our beliefs and understanding of the world.