--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: One of the ideas that runs through this…" description: "\"One of the ideas that runs through this book [Lincoln in the Bardo] is this Buddhist notion that the mind is incredibly powerful; not the brain but the..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/george-saunders-317_book_one-of-the-ideas-that-runs-through-this_98166.jpg" --- # One of the ideas that runs through this book \[Lincoln in… ![“One of the ideas that runs through this book [Lincoln in the Bardo] is this Buddhist notion that the mind is incredibly powerful; not the brain but the mind.” quote by George Saunders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/george-saunders-317_book_one-of-the-ideas-that-runs-through-this_98166.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/george-saunders-317_book_one-of-the-ideas-that-runs-through-this_98166.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e6e/george-saunders-317_book_one-of-the-ideas-that-runs-through-this_98166.jpg) > “One of the ideas that runs through this book \[Lincoln in the Bardo\] is this Buddhist notion that the mind is incredibly powerful; not the brain but the mind.” [George Saunders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/george-saunders/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Saunders highlights a Buddhist view that the mind’s capacity—distinct from the brain—shapes perception and reality, suggesting mental discipline can alter experience. **In simple terms:** Mind, not brain, holds transformative power. Key Takeaway Mental focus reshapes reality. Themes mindfulness Buddhism perception psychology Mood thoughtful inquisitive Type philosophical When to use this quote - meditation practice - creative writing - therapy sessions - educational workshops Key Concepts mind‑body dualism cognitive agency Practical Applications - use mindfulness to shift perspective - apply mental framing in problem‑solving Questions to Reflect On - What practices strengthen the mind’s influence? - How does this view align with neuroscience? 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