There was an oracle in Delphos long ago. It was at a Temple. People made appointments and met with the oracle who was a woman. You asked some questions and she made prophecies. She was very popular. There were three requirements if you wanted a personal appointment. The first was ‘Know yourself’. It was written large at the front entrance. No point going to see her if you didn’t know yourself. Imagine having to think about who you are when you wanted to know about your future. Lucky you don’t get asked this question when you apply for a job or a loan. So, who are you and how do you find out? You aren’t what you do. Your behaviour will give you some clues. Your values will also offer more clues. What is really important to you? If you make it to one hundred, what do you wish you had done more or less of? What are you proud of and what do you regret? I suspect you have more chance of figuring out who you really are if you get rid of some of the layers or armour plating. Stuff like how you want others to see you, your ego, your ambition…all the stuff your mind dreams up to define you. Maybe if you shed these layers, you will discover who is really in there.
You may feel lonely if you need others to notice who you are. If you know who you are, you can be alone. You can enjoy your own company instead of trying to impress others.
The pandemic is coming to an end and your opportunity for reflection may pass when we get busy again. Use the remaining time to shed the layers and discover who you really are. Take off the armour and be you. Others may be surprised. You will be content.