Self-Inquiry: "Who Am I?" | Entry #2

"Your own self realization is the greatest service you can render this world." -Sri Ramana Maharshi

At the heart of Wisdom of the Ages Journal lies a question so powerful that its exploration can illuminate the entirety of our existence: "Who am I?" This profound inquiry, illuminated by the pointers of Sri. Ramana Maharshi, serves as a direct path to self-realization. It acts as a guide for this journal and our collective exploration, leading us deeper into the essence of who we truly are.

The Essence of Self-Inquiry

Self-inquiry, is the practice of questioning our true nature beyond the layers of identity bestowed upon us by society, our roles, and our own mind. It invites us to peel back the veils of ignorance. In asking "Who am I?", we turn our attention not outward into the world, but inward into the depths of our own being. This question cuts through the narratives we’ve constructed about ourselves and the world around us, guiding us to a direct encounter with our true self.

The significance of this inquiry lies in its ability to dissolve the fictitious layers we've identified with, revealing a state of pure awareness — our inherent nature. It's a quest that challenges the very foundation of our perceived reality, leading us to the realization that we are not the ephemeral identities we adopt, but something far more vast and indescribable.

The Practice of Self-Inquiry

Engaging in self-inquiry requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to confront the unknown. It involves observing our thoughts, emotions, and sensations without attachment, continuously returning to the question, "Who is the one who observes?" This practice gradually erodes the solidity of our perceived identity, unveiling the luminous presence of pure awareness that underlies all experience.

The realization that emerges from this inquiry is transformative. Understanding our true nature as pure awareness liberates us from the confines of conditioned thought and behavior. It fosters a profound sense of peace, equanimity, and interconnectedness with all of existence. By awakening to our true self, we embody a presence that radiates compassion, understanding, and harmony.

Living the Inquiry

As we progress through the Wisdom of the Ages Journal, let the question "Who am I?" be a constant companion. Let it guide our reflections, our meditations, and our understanding. This inquiry is not just an intellectual exercise; it's a living practice that infuses every moment with depth and presence.

Our journey of self-inquiry is a journey back home to ourselves, to the recognition of our true nature as boundless awareness. In this discovery lies the potential for profound transformation, not only of ourselves but of the world we inhabit. Let us embrace this inquiry with an open heart, ready to uncover the infinite depths of our being.