From a neuroscience perspective, the object I love, devote myself to, and sacrifice for is an ‘extension of myself.’ The brain is inherently selfish. Selfishness is a necessary emotion and attitude for survival. Only when I exist can others exist. Yet, we often see people making sacrifices for others. How can I love someone other than myself? What I dedicate and sacrifice for someone is what my brain perceives as an ‘extended me.’ Ultimately, loving others is an extension of loving myself. Therefore, self-love becomes a foundation and a tool for loving others. If ‘self-love’ is healthy, then loving others is healthy too. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
The plum contains a poison called “amygdalin.” This poison is found not only in plums but also in other drupes. The poison “amygdalin” is a combination of two glucose molecules. When these glucose molecules are divided, they turn into “prunasin,” which is more prevalent in other plants. When an insect attacks a plant, it breaks the bond with glucose, turning it into “mandelonitrile” and quickly converting it into “benzaldehyde” and “hydrocyanic acid (HCN)” once more. HCN is a respiratory poison, and benzaldehyde is a unique fragrance component of cherries, bitter almonds, and pistachios. This dangerous ingredient is also present in green tea, but it appears only in small amounts, so it does not cause any problems when consumed. It is an ironic phenomenon in which by-products essential for survival kill other living beings. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”