I was in a bar the other night meeting some friends. It was later on in the evening and everybody was drinking pretty good. I was not…anymore. (see "Birth of Cinemorphics" post.) Something I am very well aware of, and is certainly not new news, really grabbed me for some reason on this occasion. I know many of these people in non-bar situations. In this setting (on this stage), at this time (11PM on a Friday night) they were all "different people"…strikingly so.
When you drink or do drugs you can "become a different person" very easily. This can either be a very effective tool or a highly suspect short-cut. Prescription "designer" personality/performance drugs can have the same effect (e.g. anti-depressants, tranquillizers, steroids, Viagra, pot). Changing biochemistry changes behavior…changing behavior changes biochemistry (and physiology). See e.g. THE EDGE EFFECT in an earlier post. Do you laugh because something is funny or does your laughing make something "funny"?
It is important to be aware these interactions, but it is usually not a good idea to use substances as the primary means for re-inventing yourself. Conversely, it is critical to realize how you are able to change your biochemistry and physiology via behavior. These effects can also be beneficial or harmful…and they are always present. Everything you ingest is a "drug" and every behavior effects your inner "physical" ecology. You are a BODYMIND…not a Body with a Mind or vice versa…not two…
Also…the issue of control. One goal or side effect of Cinemorphics is the apparent heightened ability to consciously form and control who you are and what you do in the world. Learning to control substance intake to create a desired effect…and being able to maintain this edge…walk this tightrope…is a demanding art.
