by Latrevia Chatman

Created on: April 22, 2009

Not knowing your identity is the first step in understanding your self awareness. The roles in life we play, is what we use to identify with. For instance, being a mother, student, entertainer, or professional. By stripping away those roles, what is left behind? <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

Just recently my life altered for the better through the worse. In order to relocate, I was kicked out my residence, and had to leave my children behind with someone who never watched them for more than a couple of hours. The intent was humiliation from the other's behalf. Because I resided on an island without friends or family, I had to hotel hop. I didn't know what to do with my free time, because I was suddenly ripped from being a stay at home mom. Not only that, I was economically dependent on someone who controlled my life. So, I frugally survived on my half of the tax refund and help from friends.

During those days, I took a glimpse of the events that had brought me to my current situation. However, it was a life that I had and forgotten about which empowered me. At one time, I did not need the approval of someone to make me feel worthy, nor did I have children to hide behind. I had myself and an endless view of life. I cannot answer when I reduced myself to a role. All I know is that I now stand before the world nude and undaunted. Through this experience I have lost my ego, and my pride is balanced.

Children, before they are exposed to judgmental behaviors, can teach a lot about self identity. They do not care who they play with, or the clothes they wear or what the weather is outside. Material items are miniscule to their exploring minds, because they take everything into consideration. Watching a baby notice their hands and feet for the first time is breath taking because of realizing the attachment of their limbs, and not knowing or caring what they're for. Beautifully they are blind as Adam and Eve were, before the first bite of the forbidden fruit.

By realizing the vast greatness in life, you can hone in on your purpose and realize that it's more to you than just a role. Just as the wind blows, it fills our lungs with air. Just as the rain falls, we drink to replenish the amount within us. Just as the dirt settle, so will our bodies once life has been removed. To identify with your self is to understand that it's not "what" makes you, but what you make of everything else.

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