The Perilousness of Identification

In the familiar language of social interaction, we often express emotion in the form of identification. I am sad. I wish to be happy. In these simple utterances we subtly reinforce a consequential link between sentiment and self. The sense of “me” is one with the feeling. The emotion subsumed as an integral component of identity.

Pertaining to skills and profession, we likewise extend these verbs of essence. I am a doctor. I have expertise in the field of deductive reasoning. I tend to be a good listener.

The notion of possession further entangles us in its complex web. We claim ownership not only over concrete objects but also intangible concepts. “I have an idea” ascribes proprietorship to creative sparks. Similarly for relationships, “This is my friend/spouse/partner.”

Possession, identity, and emotion fuse into a solid core of beingness, blurring the distinction between sense and self. Object and subject locked in an intricate dance of denial. The negation of presence.

One cannot simultaneously experience the seeming effects of interaction and discern the now. This is the peril inherent in identification, from which all suffering stems.

Yet freedom lies not in dissociation from the self but rather awareness of separation itself. As we read in A Course in Miracles:

Into eternity, where all is one, there crept a tiny, mad desire to be separate. (T-27.VIII.6, T-25.I.5)

A mistaken belief that we’ve separated from source and entered a dualistic realm of pseudo-reality.

Yet without the subject, there is no object of action, and hence no sorrow. The infinite peace of oneness shining through all shadows of sadness, replacing possession with paradise. Simply through a little willingness to examine the mistaken belief of identification.

Join me in Thursday’s class where we’ll further explore these concepts as well as techniques for entering the joyous state of now. I look forward to seeing you then.