Which parts of your true self do you hide from the world?
As we navigate the complexities of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the act of wearing masks to conceal our true selves. We may don these masks to fit in, to gain acceptance, or to protect ourselves from the harsh realities of the world. However, as we delve deeper into the realm of personal growth and self-discovery, it becomes increasingly important to recognize the masks we wear and to bravely let them go.
“The Japanese say you have three faces. The first face, you show to the world. The second face, you show to your close friends and family. The third face, you never show anyone. It is the truest reflection of who you are.” – Unknown
“The masks you wear disguise your soul. Do you see your own mask? Do you know why you wear it? To become authentic you have to be willing to recognize the masks you wear and why. Then you have to be willing to let them fall away to reveal the most vulnerable self that you have been afraid to reveal.” – Suzanne Wagner
Can you remember any instances in your past (since childhood) where you received a clear message from someone that, “I won’t be acceptable unless I show up different to what I am right now.”
The masks we wear are not any different than any of the other coping mechanisms we’ve adopted in order to feel like we can survive in what seems like a harsh environment.
Remind yourself of this… you did in fact survive because here you are, and every mask, bad habit and coping mechanism that kept you intact deserves gratitude for the role it played.
It is of course most helpful to realize which old patterns don’t serve us any longer, and do the work to soften their effect. Try to remember though that your body and your brain did an amazing job to keep you alive and that it might be a slow process of letting go of the things that were once a necessity.
I’ll leave you with this reminder from Mooji that this process can be difficult and that it will take time, so be kind to yourself as you go:
“Actually, being what you are is the simplest. What is difficult is to stop being what you are not.” – Mooji
Gently embrace the slow process of letting old masks go and showing the world your authentic self:
- Recognize your masks: Reflect on the different faces you present to the world. What are you hiding? Why?
- Embrace gratitude: Acknowledge the role your masks have played in your life. Be grateful for the protection they provided.
- Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself as you shed these old masks. Change takes time.
- Embrace your authenticity: Don’t be afraid to reveal your true self to the world. Vulnerability is strength.
Remember, the work of letting go takes time, and it’s perfectly okay to move slowly. As you embark on this journey, may you do so with a heart full of compassion and a spirit ready to embrace the beauty of your most authentic self
Wishing you a beautiful day, and join us in today’s meditation for an exercise in holding yourself in kindness while you do the work of letting old masks go.
– pierre -Today’s LIVE meditation is: The masks we wear.
– pierre –
Today’s LIVE meditation is: The masks we wear.