The Choice of Identity
Choice Awareness is a series of reflections and sound-guided meditations exploring the intersection of philosophy and spirituality to inspire mindful decision-making.
Reflection
In social science, identity is how individuals or groups perceive themselves as unique and distinct entities. It includes qualities, beliefs, personality traits, and appearances that define a person or group.
Philosophically, identity refers to the relation each thing has only to itself, meaning something is identical to itself and no other. This differs from the social science view, which focuses on self-conception, social roles, and uniqueness (e.g., cultural, gender, and national identities). Recently, identity is also considered in the context of humans' roles within the ecological web of life.
What does identity mean to us?
Is the emphasis on individualism (being distinct from others) or sameness (being identical to one another)?
Is identity a choice? If so, who is choosing?
If we identify, do we categorize?
Are we accepting of others' identities, or do we default to the identity we created for the other?
Do we perceive identity as static (e.g., cultural, gender, or national identities), or do we recognize its impermanence?
How do we feel about familiar vs. unfamiliar identities?
Who am I?
Am I?
I?
Even though we can't change everything, everywhere, all at once, we can co-create fairness through awareness by thinking things through.
Sound-Guided Meditation
This sound-guided meditation was composed live using a 5-string electric violin, a microphone, and auxiliary instruments without pre-recorded or pre-composed music.
As you enjoy this sound-guided mindfulness meditation, reflect on your choice of identity. If you like, share your reflection in the comments below.
For the best experience, use headphones and set the volume to medium. Be comfortable with quiet moments or complete silence, and avoid adjusting these periods. Normal sound levels will naturally return throughout the meditation.