Who are you?

I was at a social function the other day and I noticed something interesting.

After casual introductions were made, the first thing various individuals asked one another was, "What do you do?"

This eventually was asked of me and when I answered, "Well, I'm a devoted wife and mother." there was an ever so subtle rolling of the eyes that announced my not so subtle dismissal as a person of importance.

I think it is very interesting that we value one another based upon what we do and not upon who we are. It's an important distinction.

50% of America thinks President Bush is a groovy fellow. Any one of those individuals would probably love to have the President in their home for dinner this very evening; but it would be because of the office he fills, not because of the person he is.

Children are an even better example. Children do nothing. They consume everything; but contribute little. I would argue that because children don't actually "do" anything, they hold very little value in our society. The fact that our society refuses to educate every child, feed every child, clothe and house every child, love and nurture every child, serve and protect every child, is proof enough for me that this society does not value its children.

I think that the next time I attend a social gathering I won't ask individuals what it is that they do. Instead, I will say, "So, tell me. Who are you?"

Do you suppose anyone will be present enough to hear what it is that I am asking? Will they be self-aware enough to answer?

Why is it that we are so afraid to know ourselves?

Have YOU ever asked yourself, "Who am I?" Don't be afraid. Ask, ponder and listen for the answers.

Why not take a walk on the wild side and discover the real you?