Who Am I One Of The Issues Not Dealt With

Who Am Ione Of The Issues Not Dealt

In exploring personal identity, it is crucial to understand how our sense of self is shaped through a complex interplay of internal and external factors. Traditional discussions, such as those by Wilkens and Padgett, often focus on internal continuity and psychological criteria for personal identity. However, an important aspect that is frequently overlooked is how our understanding of ourselves is deeply influenced by our relationships with others, particularly family and peers. From birth through adolescence and into adulthood, external influences play a significant role in shaping who we see ourselves to be. This essay examines how family, friends, and external relationships contribute to the development of my core identity, while also reflecting on elements I perceive as independent of outside influence.

My core identity fundamentally revolves around values rooted in compassion, curiosity, and integrity. These characteristics have been instilled in me through my family’s nurturing environment, where care and moral guidance served as the foundation of my upbringing. Growing up, my parents emphasized the importance of kindness and honesty, encouraging me to develop a sense of responsibility towards others. These early lessons influenced my worldview and the way I interact with the world around me. My family's emphasis on moral values has shaped my internal sense of right and wrong, making these qualities central to my identity.

Beyond family influence, my friends and peer groups have played a pivotal role in shaping my self-identity, especially during adolescence. Peer interactions serve as mirrors, reflecting aspects of myself that I might not have recognized independently. A friend once observed that I tend to be a good listener and empathetic, which was an insight that surprised me but also resonated deeply. Such external reflections often help clarify facets of my personality that I might overlook. For example, peer feedback has reinforced my tendency to value harmonious relationships and to avoid conflict, shaping how I approach social interactions and my own emotional responses.

It is evident that external influences do not solely define my identity; rather, they interact with internal preferences and reflections. Over time, I have become more conscious of the need to develop an authentic self that aligns with my internal values rather than solely external expectations. For instance, I have made deliberate efforts to cultivate independence in my decision-making, nurturing a sense of self that is resilient against external pressures. Certain elements of my personality—such as my interest in philosophical inquiry or my dedication to personal growth—feel to me as though they are internal attributes that I have cultivated independently of outside influence. These elements have arisen from personal reflection and intrinsic motivation rather than external shaping alone.

However, even these seemingly independent elements are not entirely free from external influence. My exposure to philosophical literature, encouraging mentors, and reflective practices have all contributed to shaping my internal motivations. Nonetheless, the core of my sense of self—my commitment to understanding truth and fostering empathy—is rooted in internal conviction that I actively choose to nurture. This inner conviction provides a sense of authenticity and continuity, allowing me to feel grounded even as external circumstances change.

Reflecting on the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve hiding from God after their disobedience further underscores the importance of external relationships in shaping identity. Just as they sought to conceal their nakedness and shame, I recognize that my sense of self is also formed in context—often in relation to others. Conversely, spiritual or personal beliefs that I consider central to my identity, such as my faith and commitment to growth, serve as internal anchors that help me maintain a cohesive sense of self amidst external influences and challenges.

In conclusion, my core identity is a dynamic composition of influences from family, friends, and internal convictions. My family provided foundational values, while my peers and social interactions have offered reflections and challenges that refine my self-understanding. Despite these external inputs, I believe that certain elements—such as my pursuit of knowledge, my moral principles, and my internal motivations—are elements I have cultivated independently, representing aspects of my identity that are less dependent on outside influence. Recognizing this interplay allows for a more nuanced understanding of how identity forms and evolves, emphasizing both external relationships and internal agency as integral to the ongoing development of who I am.

References

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• Galatians 4:8-9 (New Revised Standard Version).
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