Are We Born Formed or Shaped by Life?
Have you ever pondered the essence of your true self? Are we born already formed due to our true nature, or do we become shaped and defined by the life we experience?
Just like an egg, a seed from an oak tree, an onion, an orange, or an apple, life takes form. These are all examples of the true cycle of life, a continuous and unending process involving the essence of existence and the creative force that manifests it.
Every moment brings a new change. The entire universe is ever-moving, like the ebb and flow of life. With every passing second, the essence of life is transformed. Some argue that there are patterns and rhythms, but these are merely human perspectives, our way of observing and understanding the flow of life. These patterns are the result of our subjective experiences and interpretations, yet they are still valid and influential on our understanding of the world.
The Influence of Nature and Nurture
The interplay between nature and nurture has been a long-standing debate. Both terms encapsulate the idea that our identity is a combination of the innate qualities we are born with (nature) and the environment and experiences we encounter throughout our lives (nurture).
Both nature and nurture are integral to who we are, but they are often perceived as conflicting forces. However, in reality, they both contribute to the creation and shaping of the individual. Our true nature refers to the inherent qualities and traits that we are inherently born with, which do not change over time. These could include our innate talents, inclinations, and fundamental aspects of our personality.
Nurture, on the other hand, encompasses the environmental and experiential factors that shape us. These include our family, friends, education, cultural background, and life experiences. Through nurture, we learn, adapt, and develop new qualities and characteristics that can evolve and change over time.
This interplay between nature and nurture is complex and dynamic. For instance, a person with a genetic predisposition to a particular skill (nature) may be more likely to excel at it if they are given the appropriate support and opportunities (nurture). Conversely, a child with a difficult life experience might develop resilience and determination (nurture) that could positively impact their overall well-being and success.
The True Nature
Your true nature is what remains constant and unaltered, even in the face of significant life changes. It is the core essence that defines you, your fundamental personality, and your core values. These qualities are deeply rooted in your being and do not change due to external influences. Your temperament, basic abilities, and fundamental self are part of your true nature.
However, it's crucial to recognize that while true nature is stable, it is not immutable. Over time, life experiences and environment (nurture) can significantly influence and even alter certain aspects of our true nature. This dynamic relationship means that while some core qualities remain constant, others may evolve and change.
Embracing the Wholeness of Life
Understanding the interplay between our true nature and the ongoing shaping of our persona by the life we experience is essential. Embracing both aspects allows for a holistic view of identity and personal growth. By acknowledging the impact of both nature and nurture, we can better understand ourselves and the people around us.
It is important to celebrate the inherent qualities that make us unique and cherish the ways in which we have grown and changed. In doing so, we honor the true essence of our being while also recognizing the importance of our life experiences and the environment in which we live.
As we reflect on the nature vs. nurture debate, we are reminded that the journey of life is a continuous process of birth, growth, and transformation. Each moment is a new chapter, and we are both the authors and the characters of our stories. In embracing both our true nature and the experiences that shape us, we can live fulfilling and meaningful lives.