Who goes there?
Thoughts on identity as a core part of the human experience
In the first issue of 42 Mysteries, we explored the topic of unity and how it relates to the birth of our modern version of Snakes & Ladders, Gyan Chaupar.
Moving forward, we’ve given this newsletter its own player piece in the game and will be rolling the dice each issue to find out what topic to focus on. This time we’ve rolled a 6 and moved from ‘Birth’ to ‘Identity’ on the Gyan Chaupar board.
The topic of identity seems fitting considering that we are in the process of forming the identity for this newsletter as well going through a period in life where our past identities are very much in flux, but also more broadly this week as we contemplate the role that identity plays in the growing polarisation of our society.
So, embracing the identity of 42 Mysteries, we’re trying out a simple format of four thoughts and two questions to ponder.
4 thoughts on identity
From Jerome Nathanson
The price of the democratic way of life is a growing appreciation of people's differences, not merely as tolerable, but as the essence of a rich and rewarding human experience.
From Vineeta
Identity is like water. The more firmly you grip it, the more it slips away. But immerse yourself in it and it becomes a lens through which to see your kaleidoscope of experiences.
From Tom
Let go of the idea that you are your race, religion, nationality, age, gender, sexuality, pronouns, diagnoses, qualifications, job title, wardrobe, car or any other category of person, and you might just get a glimpse of the infinite, undefinable, ever changing being that you are.
From Lao Tsu
The name that can be named is not the eternal name.
The nameless is the beginning of heaven and earth.
2 questions about identity
Is the person you used to be, getting in the way of the person you want to become?
Do you ever modify your behaviour to fit the identity you believe other people see you as?
If you’ve enjoyed this short format, please do pay it forward and share it with someone who you think would also like it.
Much love
Tom and Vineeta
If you’re curious about the game of Gyan Chaupar, find out more and get hold of one of our limited first edition game boards at www.gyanchaupar.co.uk
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