“We do not know what the self is, not even that it is.”
— Martin Heidegger
Simplified Meaning:
We often think we understand ourselves completely, but the truth is that we know very little about who we truly are. Imagine looking at a painting with many layers. You see the top layer and think you understand the whole picture, but there are many hidden layers beneath that change the image entirely. This is similar to how we perceive ourselves. For example, if you have a friend who always appears happy and confident, you might assume they have no worries or fears. However, they might have hidden struggles that you can’t see. In the same way, we have aspects of our own personality and thoughts that are buried deep inside, parts we're not even aware of. To truly know yourself takes time, patience, and deep reflection – it's a constant journey. This idea suggests we should stay open-minded about who we are and continue to search for deeper understanding rather than assuming we have all the answers. By embracing this mindset, we can grow more empathetic towards ourselves and others, recognizing that everyone has hidden depths and untold stories.