Believe Quote by Anthony de Mello
“Most people tell you they want to get out of kindergarten, but don't believe them. Don't believe them! All they want you to do is to mend their broken toys. "Give me back my wife. Give me back my job. Give me back my money. Give me back my reputation, my success." This is what they want; they want their toys replaced. That's all. Even the best psychologist will tell you that, that people don't really want to be cured. What they want is relief; a cure is painful.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Way to Love, Anthony de Mello, 1995
People often claim they want freedom or healing, but they actually seek relief from discomfort, not true transformation.
In simple terms: People want relief, not cure.
Key Takeaway
Seek genuine healing, not just comfort.
Themes
psychology
healing
expectations
relief
transformation
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal growth
- stress management
- relationship counseling
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
motivation
dependency
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you settle for comfort over growth?
- What would true healing look like for you?
A Different Perspective
Relief can reinforce avoidance of deeper change.
