Soother is a Lie
The desire for nourishment is one of the most primal instincts in every human being. From the moment a child is born, it knows without instruction where to turn for sustenance—its mother’s breast. In certain tribal cultures, this truth is vividly demonstrated. Newborns are placed on their mother’s stomach, and without guidance, they instinctively crawl upwards to latch onto the breast. It’s not just a physical act of feeding; it’s a profound moment of connection. When the baby nurses, it receives more than nourishment—it feels loved, wanted, and valued. Mothers, attuned to their babies’ cries, know exactly what their child needs. This intimate exchange of life and love is a microcosm of the larger truths about human desire and fulfillment. But what happens when this natural desire is unmet? Often, a baby resorts to sucking its thumb—a substitute. The thumb cannot nourish, it cannot fulfill the child’s needs, and it doesn’t convey love or value. Instead, it forms a compulsive habit, a p...