I read this book in high school in a world literature class. . . It taught me many things. Mostly, it taught me there is a place in my mind that I can go to whenever I choose. In any circumstance that is unpleasant that I have no choice in enduring (think Andy Dufrane in Shawshank Redemption) suffering can be turned off. I will always “be” regardless of circumstance. No one and no thing can “be” in your mind, unless you allow it. This book changed my life. It allows for deep connection and acceptance of one’s “self”