One who believes in himself knows where the power really is. He can appreciate others without aligning himself with them. Neither does he separate himself from them. His support comes from within. He is self-assured without being arrogant - knowledgeable, without being pedantic - generous, without being showy. Such a person is responsible for him/herself, while being open to all. Religion has its basis in duality and dependency. The focused life recognizes individual responsibility and the interdependency of all things.