We build our identity from our beginning
Adopt values and beliefs from those we depend on
Rebel and reshape who we think we are
Learn and grow, building character
Make mistakes, heal, change course
Looking back we see our path, our progress, what has shaped us
Life becomes a long slow arc of identity
Some things are sources of pride and accomplishment
Some things we are ashamed of, blame ourselves, regret
We hold onto it all. Defined by it all.
After all, it’s who we are. Our intimate journey. Ego manifest.
We are naturally sensitive to making any big shifts that would “invalidate” this identity, to admit we are on the wrong path, that life has been “wasted”
So we hold on, defend, rationalize, dig in.
Or,
We live our life until the writing is on the wall
And then we die to who we have been, identity’s death
Let it all go, grieve and open the door to rebirth, true change
So tempting to hold on to just a little piece of who we think we are. But no
We take a new path, follow our deep guidance
Until the next breakthrough and then we know we need to die again, and again, and again
Life discontinuous
No regrets, nothing wasted, nothing invalidated
I’m not that person any more