I came across this photo on Pinterest and it immediately made me think of our class discussion on identity and how we form our identity. Is your identity formed by others or simply how you see yourself? We have been told that your identity is a variety of characteristics and life events that makes up who you are. Where you live, your economic status, your physical appearance, etc. Is this really true? I got to thinking that no matter where you live or what you look like, isn't it up to you to choose your identity?
My personal belief is that one's identity is made up of many different aspects, but how you feel about yourself and who you are is the most important part of your identity. Our book says it best on the chapter regarding identities and social locations when it states, "Identity formation is the result of a complex interplay among a range of factors," (WLMP pg 101). While this is true, I still stand firm in my belief that an individual can choose what aspects of their lives make them who they are. If you grew up in a impoverished and violent neighborhood, isn't it up to you to make that a part of who you are or ignore that fact and try and pursue a different life? At the end of the day, you are the only person who is responsible for making yourself happy and if an individual sees their identity in a certain way that makes them happy, I believe it is their right to pursue that identity no matter what anyone else thinks.
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/262968065713611515/
I personally think that everyone sees himself or herself different than how others see them. Each person has his or her own opinions about themselves. But Stephanie had a point when she says "the only person who is responsible for making yourself happy is you". This statement is true because in order to have any identity you need to be happy about who you are no matter your background or race. People should have a positive identity of there self. We talked about this topic in class and there were many opinions about this topic. It comes down to how the person feels for them and not what others might label for an identity.
ReplyDeleteStephanie, I just want to start off saying that this picture is unbelievably adorable! Now on to your post, I agree with what you said regarding to your statement, "My personal belief is that one's identity is made up of many different aspects, but how you feel about yourself and who you are is the most important part of your identity". But I also feel like people can really change the way you perceive yourself, especially if it is in a negative way. People say, "I don't care what people think of me, I am who I am." This is a great way of thinking, but in reality we take what people think and say very personally. That is just how we are as a social species. Here is a quote by Dalai Lama XIV, “We human beings are social beings. We come into the world as the result of others’ actions. We survive here in dependence on others. Whether we like it or not, there is hardly a moment of our lives when we do not benefit from others’ activities. For this reason, it is hardly surprising that most of our happiness arises in the context of our relationships with others.” And with that, unfortunately people base who you are, to what you have, who you know, and where you come from. It's so sad to think that some people won't accept you, for you:(
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