Our own sense of personal identity is one of the most important issues we face throughout our lives. The many influences and experiences we encounter help fashion and form our sense of self. But rather than seeing ourselves as the product of one or two major influences, we need to be aware that our inner lives are full of complexities which are often totally unfathomable even to ourselves. When we go through times of conflict or stress we can become aware of the disparate parts of our personalities. We begin to see other sides of ourselves which clamor to be heard and expressed.

It is therefore important for us to see ourselves from as many perspectives as we can so that all the facets of our existence can be better appreciated and understood. We are not mono-personalities. We are all mult-faceted and rich in inner diversity. As we grow through life, many of the deeper parts of our lives begin to emerge and we find ourselves facing issues and challenges which are arising from within us rather than from our circumstances.

The discovery of our inner being is both a demanding and fulfilling quest. It would be a shame to have gone through life without ever getting to know ourselves. We may not always like what we see and it may be difficult to face up to our own inner truth, but the challenging need for inner integrity and congruency will not let us rest until we give voice to these deeper urgings.

Some of us look for resolution though a spiritual journey while others find it along a psychological path as we move toward personal growth and development. Often studies or new hobbies can help us express the nature of these 'awakenings'. But one thing is certain, these deeper murmurings and stirrings have a voice and character all of their own and when acknowledged wisely, have the potential to give us a new sense of purpose and direction.