That’s because there is a very strong tendency to identify ourselves with our primary activities in life.
Sure, what we do in life usually consumes a huge portion of our time and focus.
What we do, however, is only one expression of who we are; it’s not the complete picture. Not even close!
We have been brought up in a culture that defines people by what they do for a living.
As children we are asked by well-meaning relatives and friends, “So, little possum, what are you going to be when you grow up?”
Our accomplishment oriented, acquisition oriented, material world has seduced us into believing that our identity could be bought either through deeds or things. Or at least our evil twin would have us believe that.
Be honest with yourself – has anyone ever said to you “Jenny, yes Jenny. I remember her. She took such BRILLIANT minutes at a meeting I went to in 2003.” Or “Kathy? Oh Kathy!!!! Boy could that girl write a business plan/boil an egg/knit a scarf!”
You are not what you do for a living.
You are not a secretary.
You are not a marketing manager.
You are not a boiler-maker.
You are a spirit having a human experience.
Once we realise this, no one can take our identity away from us.
Just for today.
