The individual convinced of their absolute self-knowledge, or the one submerged in self-doubt? This query does not seek to delineate right from wrong but calls us towards a profound exploration of self-discovery. It resonates with my earlier sentiments/post on committing to our suffering as a gateway to self-discovery.

The quest for self-discovery and the own truth is not just about seeking truth in isolation but also involves the demolition of illusions that we’ve constructed around our own identity. It’s about remaining open to the possibility that our beliefs about ourselves may be challenged and (more often than we think) even wrong. In times like these we need to be willing to accept and navigate through the discomfort that such revelations carry.

They demand from us a relentless, unshakable commitment, as sturdy as steel, to seek out experiences – be they through adversity, confrontation, or others – that challenge our self-perceptions and stimulate a better understanding about our selves.

Marcus Aurelius, in his Meditations, underscores this ethos: “If someone can prove me wrong and show me my mistake in any thought or action, I shall gladly change. I seek the truth, which never harmed anyone: the harm is to persist in one’s own self-deception and ignorance.”

…”The harm is to persist in one’s own self-deception and ignorance.”

The ego, in its quest for dominance, often avoids such challenges, for it is built upon a bedrock of ignorance and self-deception. Recognition of its influence by our true self threatens its very existence, leading it to a desperate try to quiet down the inner voice of introspection.

This resistance introduces a new type of suffering into our lives, manifesting in the ego’s loud objections to criticism and self-reflection.

Are you willing to commit to this suffering?

Are you willing to own this suffering?

If so, start actively seeking for the truth – your truth! Because at the end of the day, truth appears unforewarned to the ones seeking it. Seek today and you shall find tomorrow!