I imagine that a search for this type of faith is the same reason Mata ultimately turned to chanting Hare Krsna.
-- Hari Ziyad (Prologue)

Importance: At the start of the text, Ziyad identifies their memoir as a search for a new faith. Although Ziyad's mother and father both had strong religious affiliations, Ziyad largely rejected their faiths. Throughout their adulthood, however, they have come to understand that faith can be found in oneself and in one's community. In this moment, they are creating a correlation between their experience and their mother's. The moment speaks to the author's explorations concerning faith and belief.

Inner Bonding is a process of connecting our Adult thoughts with our instinctual gut feelings, the feelings of our 'Inner Child' . . .
-- Margaret Paul (chapter 1)

Importance: When Ziyad first begins their sessions with their new therapist, they are skeptical. When the therapist then recommends they read Margaret Paul's book on Inner Bonding, Ziyad says they will try...