We are never truly alone.
Within our consciousnesses, we each possess a sense of “I”. The consideration of this “I” accompanies all of our decisions and actions. It is through this “I” that we interact, and express our interactions with the world around us. For example; “I am happy,” or “I do not like this,” or “I am afraid.”
I. I. I. We can go on forever on the subject.
But who is this “I”? What is its source?
And, if this “I” is me… then who am “I”?
This inquiry is more than just a philosophical exercise – it is in fact, a powerful, crucial step towards truly understanding the nature of our identities. By seeking the meaning of “I”, we explore the scope and context of our sense of “I” and also what lies beyond or before this “I”.
Exploring such a deep question involves digging past many layers of internal constructs and meanings. Just as it is with a child who keeps asking “Why?” after each answer they’re given – we, too must continue to inquire after each response. Eventually, we run out of answers for the child and arrive at an uncomfortable place. We simply cannot answer “Why?”. Somehow, something that started as a simple question sprouted wings and flew beyond the boarders of the intellectual mind.
Hopefully, we shall be just as lucky with our inquiry of: Who. Am. I?
Here we go.
Find a quiet place where you can sit, stand or move around without being disturbed by phones or people. Make sure that you have taken care of any physical or emotional needs before you begin. Make any further arrangements to be ready, and then consciously commit to truly focusing on the exercise ahead of you.
Now that you are ready, breathe into your body, and allow the inhalation and exhalation to relax your body and mind. Remember, you are alert, not passive. You may keep your eyes open, or you may close them. When you feel the moment is right, ask the question, “Who am I?”.
Listen carefully for thoughts or feelings that may be responding to your question. As each response or feeling arises, continue to seek the source of the “I”. Here is an example of what your inner dialogue may sound like:
Who am I?
I am me.
What is the source of “me”?
I am the energy in my body.
Who is the “I” in the body?
I am the thoughts.
Who is the “I” within the thoughts?
And so on, until you can truly focus on the essential component of the question ie the source of the “I” thought. This exercise can be exhausting for the mind because it is being pushed beyond what it “knows”. So if you need to, feel free to rest and continue your quest another time.
While you should always be patient with yourself, you must also be determined in your pursuit of this answer. Stick with your search, dig through those layers, take your inner learning further and further until you experience the ease and enlightenment that this ripe, light filled inquiry leads to.
Happy travels.