For centuries, people have grappled with the question “Who am I?” and it remains a profound resonance with our deepest human experiences. I just heard Deepak Chopra discuss how not having a clear answer can lead to stress, depression, and anxiety. I find myself connecting with his thoughts, even if we approach them from different angles.
He suggests we become more aware—stepping back from our thoughts and observing ourselves as if we’re an outsider. This can be really helpful; I often use the analogy, “Think of your thoughts as clouds passing by—let them go, don’t cling to them—you’re not your thoughts.” My goal is to help clients realize they’re more than their thoughts; for instance, when someone says, “I’m feeling anxious,” I remind them they’re not an ‘anxious person’—they’re just experiencing a temporary emotion.
As a Christian, my view is simple: I’m a child of God, and that’s all that matters. This identity isn’t something we earn or lose; it’s given at baptism and renewed through prayer.
When Chopra discusses awareness, I interpret it as stepping out of our personal narratives, we get caught in our own theodramas—thinking we’re the main characters in our own stories. Instead, we’re called to serve, consider others, and wish well for everyone, embodying the fundamental principles of Buddhism—love and kindness.
I agree, thoughts don’t define us; Jesus reminds us, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matt 26:41), acknowledging that a weak will can hinder our intentions. For those familiar with AA, this is why they pray the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Ultimately, it’s about surrendering to God’s will.
Chopra stresses detachment, but Christianity takes this idea to a deeper level by inviting us into a connection with God. Being aware can help us recognize fleeting thoughts, but only a soul linked to God can truly tell if a thought guides us toward truth or temptation—that’s the crucial distinction.
Buddhism advocates for detachment from the self and liberation through disidentification from the mind and body, sometimes symbolized by mystical ascension or levitation. Christianity, however, values the mind and body as divine gifts. We are called to discern thoughts through God’s truth, as Paul advises: “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
Chopra believes that much suffering can be alleviated simply by doing nothing. However, Christians see true stillness as an active presence, as in the phrase “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Meditation allows us to focus, while prayer strengthens our relationship with God.
Lastly, Chopra muddies the line between spirituality and religion. However, I cling to my Catholic faith because the Church’s teachings are grounded in truth, no matter what the current trends are. Not all people who consider themselves “spiritual” believe in God; without God, spirituality can become self-created. When understood correctly, religion serves as a foundation in divine truth.
For me, the answer to “Who am I?” is straightforward: I’m a child of God. This truth gives me a solid foundation, encourages humility, ignites a childlike curiosity, helps me accept myself, love others with innocence, and appreciate life’s divine creations—like myself.