Who Do You Think You Are?

by Michael S. Tyrrell

July 14, 2020

Greetings my Dear Wholetonians,

When someone asks you “Who do you THINK you are,” how does that make you feel? Depending on the tone, it can sound like an indictment of character, couldn’t it? But what if I were to ask you the same question with a different intention. I would change the emphasis slightly, like this: “Who do YOU think you are? Now it’s a whole different question, isn't it?! 

Just by emphasizing a different word, the indictment suddenly becomes introspection. Intention can also be shown through punctuation, another powerful instrument in successful communication. Here is an example that goes from invitation to the macabre, via one little comma: “Let’s eat, Grandpa!” vs. “Let’s eat Grandpa!” 😉 Sometimes, it’s not only what you say, but how you say it, that makes all the difference!

I find it fascinating that in social circles, the first question we often ask one another is “So, what do you do?” As if our vocation, talent, or, socio-economic status somehow defines us? Perhaps a more viable inquiry might be, “Who are you?” Let me break the mold and pose that question to you, dear friend. Who do YOU think YOU are? The answer to this question is paramount to your entire life and purpose.

Let me ask you a couple of secondary questions to help you define a qualified answer:

• Do you love yourself? 
• Do you respect yourself? 
• Are you hard on yourself? 

You see, if you can't love yourself, you will be incapable of loving others. If you don't respect yourself, you won't respect others. If you are hard on yourself, chances are you'll be really hard (and overly demanding) on others.

Now that you’ve had some food for thought, I will ask my lead in question one more time, “Who do YOU think YOU are?” This week's Tuesday Musing isn't an inquisition as much as it's supposed to be a revelation!

A friend isn't nearly as concerned about what you do as much as who you are. To prove this, if you’re married, your wife or husband fell in love with who you are. Ultimately, love should be the impetus behind WHAT you do! God loves you for who you are; that love should, in turn, spur you on to good works!

I know I have probably mentioned this in previous emails, but every day, I ask myself two questions that must be answered honestly if I desire to continue as a great husband, friend, and child of God.

Here they are: “Why do I do… what I do?” and “Who do I do it for?”

The answers to these questions keep me honest. I recommend them as a daily, self-diagnostic tool for you as well.

Nosce Te Ipsum is an ancient Latin and Greek aphorism meaning “Know Thyself.” To know one’s self is the vestibule (starting point) of knowing God.

YOU are the crowning achievement of the Creator’s handiwork, so get to know yourself—you are far more magnificent than you know!  In fact, you are a masterpiece!

Until next time…

Be Whole,
Michael S. Tyrrell

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