“Do you know what you are? You are a manuscript of a divine letter. You are a mirror reflecting a noble face. This universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself; everything that you want, you are already that.” – Rumi
Take a moment to pause; take a deep breath, and ground yourself. As you read, connect with your heart transcending the boundaries of the mind. Breathe in, bringing your awareness to your physical presence. And with each breath, reconnect with the rhythm of your heart, immersing yourself in the present moment. Feel a gentle wave of relaxation wash over your entire body, leaving you calm, centered, and relaxed.
To truly understand our core identity, it requires consistent practice, a deliberate effort to replace the limiting thoughts and beliefs we’ve carried since childhood. There are three layers of identity we are associated with, these are:
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- Identity based on culture (the outer layer), shaped by society, race, gender, and various external factors. It influences our behaviors, expectations, and habits. For example, certain cultural norms dictate how we should act, speak, and even what we should eat.
- The second layer is our borrowed identity, woven from our earliest childhood experiences. These experiences, often imprinted deep within us, create patterns that can unknowingly hold us back. If we didn’t feel safe or if our needs were not met, we may find ourselves repeating painful cycles as adults, unconsciously trapped in patterns forged long ago.
- At the core of our being lies our true identity (the third layer) the essence of who we are – pure and authentic. It’s the blueprint we were born with, untouched and unfiltered by external influences.
The beauty of our journey lies in the fact that just as our bodies continue to grow, so does our capacity to recreate our identity.
As you embark on this voyage of self-discovery, remember that you hold the power to rewrite your story. Peel away the layers that conceal your true essence. Embrace your true self, for within it lies the key to living a life aligned with the core of your being.
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