The all time and greatest desires of man from the beginning of existence has been that of the pursuit for self fulfilment, happiness, respect, attention, love from self and that of fellow men and etcetera. The attainment of this isn’t far fetched from the subject of self-realization which has been tagged as the common denominator for attaining any of the spelt-out state.
The word self-realization has accrued lot of definitions in attempt to outline its meaning explicitly leaving us with the following as meanings to ponder upon:
• The awakening and manifestation of latent potentialities of the human being.
• Fulfilment of one's own potential.
• The impulse to convert oneself into what one is capable of being.
• The knowledge of the true self beyond delusion.
• Self-identification and not mere ego identification
In my thought, I feel self-realization is self-discovery which in detail entails deep introspection with a view to understanding one’s self in totality in terms of strength and weaknesses and the maximization of this realization for the good of mankind. The knowledge of who we are is expedient in a man’s life. This knowledge gives us the boldness and courage to stand tall in the midst of challenges. It is usually said that our own self-realization is the greatest service we can render the world.
It’s funny how our society has so pattern and model life for young generations with no instructive guide as to the essence of self-realization except for a lucky few. As toddlers we grew investing all of our time and energy trying to fit into the pre-existing pattern of livelihood with gross negligence for the knowledge of one’s self. The shadow of this delusive adventure has left man in continuous want and search for measures to aptly suit her insatiable quest self-satisfaction, all these to no logical end.
I now better understand the philosophical caution by Socrates to the Greeks of that era saying “Man, Know Thyself” as in this truth lies the beginning of life’s fulfilment.
To be continued.....