by M M Johns

Created on: November 18, 2009   Last Updated: November 19, 2009

"To see ourselves as others see us". When putting together a self portrait is this the image which we are trying to project, our perception of how others see us? But that then, in the strictest sense of a self portrait, would rather be a portrait. Or, do we rather try to portray the perception which we hold of ourselves? Being honest in a self portrait is hard, downright difficult, because we have to be honest with ourselves and accept the good and bad within ourselves. It is difficult, sometimes, to be objective when looking either inward or at the superficial aspects of one's self. If we take the superficial view, the one which stares back from the mirror it is easy. Or is it? In many instances we view that image as imperfect, not meeting the required and accepted standards so eschewed by others. Yet, others see us in a completely different light. The saying that beauty is in the eye of the beholder springs to mind. Are we, therefore, guilty of too much modesty? Of being over critical of our shortcomings? However, fortunately, a self portrait is not only about the superficial, surface aspect of our being. It is also about the more important aspects of who we are, what we have become and our achievements in relation to our fellow man. Again, here modesty plays a part, reducing our contributions to lesser degree than those around us may see them. The exception to all of this is the massive ego which can falsify a self portrait to the n'th degree, turning the portrayal into an utter falsehood which would not be recognised by others as a true illustration of the self. An accurate self portrait could be constructed in much the same manner as the putting together of a resume, the biggest difference being that a self portrait has to include the weaker points as well as the good. A self portrait should, when viewed, provide satisfaction and recognition that this is indeed a true reflection of one's self. But, how can the inner attributes be displayed accurately in a self portrait? False modesty has to go out the window, honesty has to prevail. An accurate portrayal can only be done by someone who is completely at ease with himself. Who has come to recognise that each and every part of their makeup, whether good or bad, forms part of the whole. And that the whole being is not only that which is displayed to the world but is the sum total. What you see is what you get!

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