A typical question that everyone asks me daily is, "Who are you?" or "What is your name?" Sometimes, we simply see this as an opportunity to introduce ourselves by stating our name and wearing a mask, conforming to societal expectations. We mention our studies and accomplishments solely for the sake of earning money and consolidating the desired financial outcome of our education. However, we rarely address the deeper question, "Who are you?" Take a moment to ask yourself now, "What am I?" This is what I refer to as 'The Speaking Mute'—an oxymoronic expression of my thoughts.
Typically, we tend to tailor our answers based on the context or the importance we assign to the question. When introducing ourselves to a friend, we may keep it simple, casual, and lighthearted. However, when introducing ourselves to a project supervisor, we adopt a formal and detailed approach, highlighting all our relevant experiences. Although responses may vary, most people do not answer with "I am human"; instead, they provide their names and other superficial details. For me, answering this question is more challenging than solving a math problem because I am in a constant state of change. Every moment, new cells and nuclei form within me. What can one truly say about themselves? We often mention our education and other trivial matters. Yet, I cannot say, "I helped a grandmother cross the road" or "I supported a girl through her family trauma." These experiences remain unheard because they were not deemed significant during interviews—they were muted.
So, in essence, are we answering every question incorrectly? Not exactly, but we seldom think about it in that way. Those around us also proceed without questioning our answers, and as a result, we face fewer inquiries than we pose to ourselves.
“The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.”
― William Shakespeare, As You Like It
So, I will try to answer, "What am I?"
I am the long-lasting stardust, existing beyond ages and ages. Collectively, I join together to form what I am. I am full of flesh that flows with blood and possesses stiffened bones. However, these elements alone do not define who I am. I am more than flesh, blood, and bones. I am human—a foolish human. Why am I considered a fool? Because I feel. I feel deeply for things. I ponder whether a lost rubber would shed tears for losing me. I shed tears for people who do not reciprocate my love, yet I continue to support and help them without expecting anything in return. I laugh at the silliest jokes and smile at the vast expanse of the sky. I hold onto hope, even when the things I cling to are not constant. I strive to convince others that I am the best, even when they disagree. I attempt to meet the mediocre standards set by many. I never consider any part of a job finished. This is who I am, and I may or may not remain the same.
As you can see, I attempted to provide a nice introduction about myself, but the words played and altered the meaning. Nobody can definitively say who I am. Nobody can truly capture my essence. Share your own eccentric introduction in a comment and witness how words can transform your perception. to you.
"जो भी मैं कहना चाहूँ
बर्बाद करें अलफाज़ मेरे
अलफाज मेरे"
(Whatever I want to say,
it's ruined by my words..
my words..) - Irshad Kamil - Rockstar
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