For the last few weeks we have been exploring how to take care of ourselves when the Seasons in life change. We have explored the vulnerability of hope, the need to adapt our thinking to new situations and circumstances, and the importance of being realistic about our physical limitations. Be warned. Each of these tips are meaningless if we are incapable of truly knowing ourselves.
Plato quotes his teacher, Socrates, “Do thy own work. Know thyself.” This idea was so important to the people of Greece that they inscribed it on the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. However, most of us do not know ourselves very well. We like to believe that we are self-healing, thick-skinned, and emotionally invulnerable. But the truth is generally far different.
We try not to look too closely to the blemishes in the mind or the soul. We avert our attention when we encounter an image of ourselves that is at odds with our self-image. We seek shelter in our own preconceptions when an unflattering image of ourself appears in the responses of those around us. We submerge uncomfortable emotions in a sea of denial. We not only do not know ourselves all that well, we avoid any encounters with the stranger that lives within our body, mind, and soul.
Unfortunately, when the seasons change in our lives we become exposed to the self that is just beneath the surface. We cannot avoid the person that appears in the moment when we are struggling to keep our control. The hidden self emerges with emotions and actions that surprise us. Our usual ways of coping are incapable of controlling this stranger that has taken over our life. Once this occurs it is very difficult to regain our footing. There is little we can do until the “comfortable” self re-emerges. Therefore, it is vital that we strive to know ourselves before the seasons begin to change, because the seasons will change. We will be affected. If we are better able to “Know Thyself” we will be more prepared to accept the changes and take care for ourselves.
Plato quotes his teacher, Socrates, “Do thy own work. Know thyself.” This idea was so important to the people of Greece that they inscribed it on the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. However, most of us do not know ourselves very well. We like to believe that we are self-healing, thick-skinned, and emotionally invulnerable. But the truth is generally far different.
We try not to look too closely to the blemishes in the mind or the soul. We avert our attention when we encounter an image of ourselves that is at odds with our self-image. We seek shelter in our own preconceptions when an unflattering image of ourself appears in the responses of those around us. We submerge uncomfortable emotions in a sea of denial. We not only do not know ourselves all that well, we avoid any encounters with the stranger that lives within our body, mind, and soul.
Unfortunately, when the seasons change in our lives we become exposed to the self that is just beneath the surface. We cannot avoid the person that appears in the moment when we are struggling to keep our control. The hidden self emerges with emotions and actions that surprise us. Our usual ways of coping are incapable of controlling this stranger that has taken over our life. Once this occurs it is very difficult to regain our footing. There is little we can do until the “comfortable” self re-emerges. Therefore, it is vital that we strive to know ourselves before the seasons begin to change, because the seasons will change. We will be affected. If we are better able to “Know Thyself” we will be more prepared to accept the changes and take care for ourselves.
Tips
Develop the courage to Know Thyself – Do not let a fear of the truth deter you from getting to know your hidden self.
You have been through it before. Remember your history, it has much to teach you. And remember that you are not the same person you were before. If it turned out badly the last time is no indication that you will see similar results this time.
You are not alone. Having support and using it re very different creatures. Allow yourself to open up and receive the help from those who love you and have your best interest at heart.
You will survive, but give yourself time to hurt. Healing takes time. Do not bury the hurt. Let it work its way out through your life.
But most of all, take this moment of change to grow in understanding and appreciation of yourself. In these moments when our hidden self appears, get to know that person and learn to live with them.
Enjoy the seasons of your life!
Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.
― Yoko Ono
You have been through it before. Remember your history, it has much to teach you. And remember that you are not the same person you were before. If it turned out badly the last time is no indication that you will see similar results this time.
You are not alone. Having support and using it re very different creatures. Allow yourself to open up and receive the help from those who love you and have your best interest at heart.
You will survive, but give yourself time to hurt. Healing takes time. Do not bury the hurt. Let it work its way out through your life.
But most of all, take this moment of change to grow in understanding and appreciation of yourself. In these moments when our hidden self appears, get to know that person and learn to live with them.
Enjoy the seasons of your life!
Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.
― Yoko Ono
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