Identity

"The sense of self, providing sameness and continuity over time"

     For years...I have been seeking to discover and create my consistent identity. For years...I have pondered if there truly is a "self". Life experiences and our surroundings create who we are as a person. Therefore...we are going to continue to change and grow (hopefully). Well, what stays the same? From birth to now....what stays consistent?  

     I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I never realized how fast people can change. I have always described myself as curious...genuine...and obnoxious. I feel that these are the only characteristics that have stayed consistent. At times these qualities have helped me succeed...and at other times they have caused me to fail. Regardless...I will always..always be curious...genuine...and obnoxious. 

     This is one of my favorite pictures from Israel. I was there for only 10 days...and I feel like a completely different person. I know that my identity has changed...but I can't figure out how. I feel calmer...I feel at peace. However, I am even more confused about my identity than I was before. I used to always wish that I could find myself...but instead, I am going to create myself through the choices and events that I am in control of. This picture represents that for me. We are one group...on a journey that we are in control of for the most part...and instead of being impatient for the destination...we are enjoying the time spent putting one foot in front of the other- because sometimes that all you really can do.