Know yourself

We need a lifetime to discover ourselves; to unravel mysteries of our minds, to understand our vulnerabilities, impulses, reactions, attitudes, dark urges and divine intimations. The ancient aphorism carved on the lintel of the temple of Apollo at Delphi, 'Gnothi Seauton' - 'know thyself', is an endless endeavour full of riches, for he who knows himself knows all.

We are shaped by various experiences, and in moments of heightened introspection, we begin to understand our reactions to stimuli in our lives. We understand the sum of ourselves.

The birdsong and the regeneration of leaves are a testament to the overwhelming beauty of life and our response to it. Tragedies we endure are pointers to the resilience of the human mind, whose purity is enhanced by suffering - while joyful events warn us that life is transient.


We are also plagued by existential questions of right and wrong that often lead to regret. Did we listen to our conscience and do the right thing? Did we forgive others' transgressions, or are they still in our memory? Did we put our best foot forward in performing our duties? Did we accept consequences of our choices, taking responsibility - including moral responsibility - without looking for scapegoats?

At the end of it all, through self-reflection on an 'examined life', we understand ourselves in some measure and become better, which enables us to look towards a happier future.