How do we cultivate the practice of listening to the sound of our genuine self?
This is the starting point for experiencing the purpose of life. An ear that is attuned to the heart of the genuine self will not lead us astray and will not waste our time on futility. When we cultivate our own unique practice of listening to the genuine within us, then we find a deeper understanding of who we are meant to be during our lifetime.
Why is it so hard to find the genuine self?
Firstly, we spend a lot of our life hiding from it, burying it from our own view to pretend we are something we are not. We also become attached to a version of ourselves that we have created in order to feel acceptance and approval from those around us, those we strive to impress. Once we learn to play the role so well it becomes us and we forget the deeper genuine self that was buried under the masks we wear. Typically around middle age we become aware that there is more to be discovered and that we are most at peace when we act in concert with our own values, morals, and goals regarding our life journey.
What is the point of finding the genuine self?
After awhile playing the role becomes a waste of our time and energy. We crave to be known and to know others authentically and the mask we wear just blocks these deeper connections. Many of us do not know how to be genuine because we have become so blended with our masks.
How do we craft a practice of listening to the genuine self?
To become acquainted with our genuine self requires intentional time to listen. We need to separate the noise and distraction from the genuine and the real that is calling to us. We all need to find our own unique process to quiet down and listen to the genuine self. Once we can differentiate the noise and distractions within us and connect to the deeper peace that resides there, then we can begin to integrate a more genuine sense of self.
This is a life long process that requires intentionality and at times guidance from a good mentor, counselor or spiritual director. Learning from our emotions that tell us what truly affects us, learning from our gut what inspires us, motivates us, enlivens us, and learning from our thoughts what brings us creativity, healing, passion, and curiosity are all inroads to the genuine self.
We need to create daily rituals of prayer, mindfulness, journaling and reflecting to get to know ourselves for real. We need to have quality time when we engage in creative outlets to learn about ourselves.
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