"One of the most basic mind structures through which the ego comes into existence is identification. The word “identification” is derived from the Latin word idem, meaning “same” and facere, which means “To make.” So when I identify with something, I “make it the same.” The same as what? The same as I. I endow it with a sense of self, and so it becomes part of my “identity.” One of the most basic levels of identification is with things: My toy later becomes my car, my house, my clothes. and so on. I try to find myself in things but never quite make it and end up losing myself in them. That is the fate of the ego."
- Eckhart Tolle (via ishmak)
