Know Thyself
“I say that it is the greatest good for a man to discuss virtue every day and those other things about which you hear me conversing and testing myself and others, for the unexamined life is not worth living.” — Socrates
Two universes exist in this life.
One without.
And one within.
We spend much of our time exploring the outer universe while neglecting the inner one. Is it any wonder we often feel lost and adrift?
Purpose requires an understanding of our place in this world.
I was reminded of the phrase “know thyself” recently while watching The Matrix in preparation for the latest incarnation of the franchise. It appeared in the Latin form as “Temet Nosce” on a plaque above the Oracle’s door. It is also a Delphic maxim inscribed in the Temple of Apollo forecourt at Delphi.
I was struck by what it means to know oneself. We go to great pains forming relationships with others. We learn their interests. We share their experiences. We work hard to understand them. But how much of this do we do for ourselves?
Have you ever asked yourself this question: Who am I?
These three words appear simple on the surface, but they are the key to unlocking the inner universe. Asking the question they form is one thing. Answering it is another. An entire lifetime may be insufficient to fully answer it.
And yet, we must strive to understand the person within. The container of this inner universe is the soul. It has a purpose in this life.
What does it want?
What does it NEED?
The longer we deny these questions, a feeling of emptiness forms in the place of understanding. And regret fills all of the spaces in between.
Begin your inner journey without delay.
Your life’s work depends on it.
🤔 Food for Thought:
Who are you?
What does your soul want?
What does your soul NEED?
⚙️ One Small Step:
Begin your inner journey by writing down the following items...
What values do you hold dear? Live your values every day. When there is a gap, be honest and work to narrow it.
What is meaningful to you in life? Prioritize the meaningful things in your life. Make room for them by letting go of all else.
Who do you aspire to be? Represent yourself in one sentence. What will you be known for? Now do what that person would do each day.
Keep reflecting on these questions as a way of getting to know yourself. Update the answers often and keep them aligned with the inner you.