I think one of the things that happens to many of us as we get older is that we become so invested in the ego where the ego is that our being becomes wrapped up in defending our space, rather than growing that space.
The object of exploration becomes and object of rigid defense, against loss of that present ego state.
Children, while their ego states are forming, are much less likely to be afraid of exploration and change, especially if they are given encouragement in their learning as much as what they learn. The joy then comes in the exploration, with that being a rewarded behaviour in and of itself.
Reward systems based on merit can crush some spirits, though others take to them like a dog to liver snacks.
The trick is to find where that mind is, and help that mind find a way beyond the introspected specter most mistake for the self, the parasite referenced in some traditions, Satan, those elements of the self which cling to the biographical being, or biological being, as the self, rather than an aspect of self.
This is the dilemma for the super ego - to resolve the idea of a complete self that gives monkey and limbic brains comfort enough in their own peaceful participation.
And that is a difficult situation to balance.
I think any amount of intentionality is good. The more we create society that facilitates discourse the more we will extend that privilige outwards.
As major change always requires, our worlds are all colliding inward and outward, and the path we choose requires intention of mind, body and spirit. Engaging our intellect, keeping our physical world sustainable, and engaging faith in the struggle.
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