The Key To Life Is Knowing One's Self
Vera Lenore
May 2024
Blog XIV
“It is enlightenment to know one's self”
Lao Tzu
6th century BC
Many years ago, as I slept, a small voice whispered in my ear that, “the key to life is knowing one’s Self”. I awoke to this puzzling statement only to later realize that this has been an ongoing notion for centuries. Premier philosopher Plato and his most brilliant student, Aristotle, spoke to this concept at length as well as Lao Tzu and even Benjamin Franklin once remarked, “There are three things extremely hard: steel, a diamond and to know one’s self.”
If you observe children at play, it is obvious that they have a keen ability to adhere to their true nature, albeit every one of them have a different approach and varying temperaments, they have an uncanny connection to something much greater than we can comprehend. It’s widely regarded that if an infant smiles in his/her sleep, they are said to be playing with angels. There is a little anecdote that goes something like this…there once was a young couple who brought home a little brother, for their first son. The older brother was so fascinated with his newborn sibling and kept requesting some time alone with his new, baby brother. The parents didn’t know what to make of it so, after being badgered a bit, they conceded, then watched and listened from the door. As the young boy approached the infant, he leaned over the bassinet whispering, “Tell me about heaven and God, I’m starting to forget.”
An insightful perspective on a very profound question that humans have pondered since the dawn of time…where did I come from and why am I here? There are no clear cut answers, but for those with Faith and trust, there is an acknowledgement of being divinely driven to our true nature, objective and destination. Although the trials and tribulations are many, it is the contentment and joy we experience through others that make it all worthwhile. Sometimes they bring joy to you and other times you bring joy to them. Family and friends are usually the main resource of delight in life yet even a genuine, heartfelt exchange with a stranger can instill a sense of bliss.
The trick here is knowing exactly where and what you should be in any given situation. This is the monumental task of every human soul. The average lifespan of people in the United States is 77.5 years. That is way up from the 49.2 years at the turn of the 20th century. With all that time, some still leave this planet unfulfilled. There is much more to the human being than just the human doing.
Throughout a lifetime there are some consistent characteristics that are embedded within each soul. Some say it’s nature, others say it’s nurture and most would tell you it's a combination of both. God’s intrinsic impression and the indelible imprint of parental influence on children is undeniable. They are a mirror where a parent's reflection can be seen to guide actions and reactions.
Being that May is the Mother’s Day month, my hope is that all mothers value the experience of raising their children. It is the most important vocation on Earth. It can have its difficult moments but ultimately, the lessons learned by both are invaluable. It is an honor, blessing and innate challenge that can bring enlightenment to the children and mothers equally, in an effort for discerning a more accurate sense of Self.
In conclusion, one certain way to decipher one’s Self is by the interactions with other souls on this mutual journey back home. We test our mettle by trying to emulate God everyday with the confidence that our steps are guided. Being loving, kind, understanding and empathetic are ways to comprehend our true nature. We are undoubtedly here for a reason, a mission and assignment that no other is capable of fulfilling. Discovering your true Self can enhance our world and give us a sense of divine purpose.
Until next time…
Be Well My Friends