The question, “who am I?” has been globally recognized as a first step to self-enquiry, the pathway that leads us from our outer world to the inner world. However, with so many activities and distractions of the modern times and social media era, people are deeply entangled in those external distractions that keep the mind busy and entertained. It becomes difficult to detach or distance ourselves from the physical and mental world, our personality traits, and therefore, we are unable to take the time to remember who we are at a given moment (in the now moment). A modern version is needed for the busy population to facilitate Self enquiry as an easy practice, not only every day but several times a day. Asking the question, “Who am I now?” helps instantly shift from an assumed personality in the mind and come out of its entanglements. This subtle modification of the question to ask “Who am I now?” may lead to an immediate immersive experience versus just the immersive experience that resulted when we sporadically asked the question “Who am I?”.
With the practice of “Who am I now?” it takes very little time to shift the focus from whatever you are doing or feeling because of the awareness this question creates in the current moment. Being in the present itself is a state of supreme bliss. With this understanding try an experiment. During any problem, situation, or state of mind, first ask yourself, “Who was I a moment ago?” The answer could be: “A moment ago I was…
– an arrogant person
– an upset person
– a bored person
– a confused personality
– an angry or irritable person
– someone who was calm and peaceful
– an intelligent or smart person
– a loser or doormat
– someone who was comparing myself with others…
As soon as you say, “Who am I now?” you will be reigned back from your mental web and from your personality into the present moment and be reminded of your true self, the sense of being, beyond the body and mind. You will attempt to locate the real “I” and be led back to the experience of being. You will then find that the problem or situation has dissolved.
When you get a thought, “Oh! I don’t look good or this outfit doesn’t suit me or I wish I was taller.” Immediately ask, “Who am I now?” You will shift to the present, remember who you actually are, and then go to the experience of Self. Your thoughts will change and you will feel that the real me is taller and bigger than the entire universe.” By associating any thought with “Who am I now?” you can shift to the present moment and in-turn to your real self.
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