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Crisp by my friend Rob Gray

Actions vs Being

Amanda Says:
“On a side note, sometimes we like to get all existential to the point we think ourselves out of common sense. (i.e. anyone remember the famous question in regards to defining the word “is”?) However, I think it’s important that we understand what we value and why. What guides us to make decisions and how do we live with the consequences of these decisions? And, why do we define ourselves by what we do? Just thoughts to ponder. ;o)”

Yeah, why do we define ourselves by what we do? That is such a challenging misconception for me to overcome. You can learn about yourself by reflecting on the actions you have taken, thereby gleaning information on things about yourself you may not have previously been aware of, but ultimately the things you do are simply an effect of you and not you yourself.

Huh? Sounds good, but really? I get very confused as to what it means. If you really break it down, it makes sense. You come first. The art you make, the relationships you build, the things you destroy all come as effects of you and your existence.

So that is what that means, and that, to me, is why the confusion is so thick. But truly, in the end, we are not what we do. Our actions are simply wonderful little resources for the research paper of you!

Aww… how cheese.

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51 Responses to “Actions vs Being”

  1. Man Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:03 am

    After writing a few research papers in my time I know they’re dull and boring, know translate it to video drop a hip-hop beat and some CGI and the world pays attention.

    Simply being is not enough, a failure to act speaks volumes but what you do is the best.

    Thinking.

    If we could all add a little science in our lives you can cut through that confusion.

    Oops I think I made a cutting cheese joke.

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  2. taylor nikole Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:03 am

    *ponders ponders ponders*
    being as to ‘our actions are the effect of who we are’ being the primary statement…
    I think I’d actually have to disagree with “we are not what we do”..

    My best friend are at the moment discussing this actually over aim, because we always discuss deep subjects like this… and i thought it would be interesting to get his opinion too…
    These topics are usually brought up on a daily basis anyways :)
    and he talks alot

    here was our conversation:

    Van Ropen: so to play devils advocate, which is what assholes like me do
    Van Ropen: i would have to say, no
    Smileytay5: here here
    Van Ropen: the intent behind our actions
    Van Ropen: may be the result of who we are
    Van Ropen: but the manner in which we chose to carry them out
    Van Ropen: is a reflection of who we, if not necessarily “are”, who we may be
    Van Ropen: cause we dont have to chose a particular manner of action
    Van Ropen: and since actions
    Van Ropen: have effects
    Van Ropen: and different actions have different effects
    Van Ropen: the actions we chose will have specific effects
    Van Ropen: and thus, those specific effects change us
    Van Ropen: meaning, our intentions are a reflection of who we are, but the results of our actions change us, meaning our actions can inadvertantly and indirectly define us
    Van Ropen: holy shit, im awesome, rofl
    smileytay5: i agree actually
    smileytay5: i can’t agree with her… in some ways…
    smileytay5: thats what i was thinking… who we are is direct action of what we have decided to do… but also heres another question she added… what makes us do these things?
    smileytay5: because im aware of how i deal with my consequences..
    smileytay5: is the reason i do these things… because of the person i am in the moment?
    smileytay5: but when i do these things.. the consequence changes me?
    Van Ropen: the reason an individual does things
    Van Ropen: is a combination of the person they are
    Van Ropen: the person they want to be
    Van Ropen: and the ppl and environmental factors affecting the decision/”thing”/action in question
    Van Ropen: and the consequences of the action, depending on the action taken, can and will change the individual
    Van Ropen: cause there are ALWAYS unforseen consequences…not necessarily negative ones, but effects nonetheless
    smileytay5: kinda like what i was getting at…
    Van Ropen: yeah
    Van Ropen: it was what you were getting at
    Van Ropen: but i tend to drone
    Van Ropen: about whatever pops into my head
    smileytay5: sooo environmental changes also affect us causing us to shape ourselves… causing us to somehow make other decisions… causing consequences which shape us again… and the cycle goes on eh?
    Van Ropen: yup, nice canadian touch at the end, lol
    smileytay5: so in other words.. we agree
    smileytay5: that we are what we do…
    smileytay5: basically
    Van Ropen: yup
    smileytay5: or the effect of what we do is usually who we are
    smileytay5: i love the wording
    Van Ropen: haha
    Van Ropen: indeed

    I guess that basically covers it
    deep topic
    LOVE IT!
    thanks!
    I had to go back and read them sometimes because of the wording :)

    <3 taylor nikole

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  3. David Hayes Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:26 am

    Intent has to be closer to what we are than the action. Why did we do it?

    Because I want to.

    My Momma said I should.

    I care about how the community views me.

    I’m scared of the authorities so I do what I’m told.

    I do what God would expect of me.

    I do what I do to be an examle to others of what a human being should be.

    And yes, what we do in turn effects who we are and what we become. Often by baby steps, lost people find themselves … and innocent people become monsters. But more often than not, people go in circles … or more accurately spirals as they re-visit old mistakes throughout a span of time.

    But on to another question that the original post raises: To the degree that our actions define us, do our inactions define us more? The things we didn’t say or do that haunt us and could have made a world of difference to others.

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  4. Anthony V. Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 1:10 am

    hmm….

    Its kind of hard to think so late at night…or in the morning.

    I don’t quite know if this is what you’re meaning, but whenever I do things, I always try to do whats right. I guess its the way that I was raised. Of course, you can’t always do whats ‘right’ by the worlds standards. Sometimes you just have to do whats right for you. Whether it be for a spiritual reason, or a personal reason.

    I think in the end, the things that we do define us because they’re based on our own foundation. That is, the way we’ve been raised, what we believe in, what we like to do, etc. Our actions that we take (and even the ones we dont take) describe us and how we’ve been formed from all of our experiences. In the end, they do help tell a story of who we are. We use them as a guide on how we should live our life. And it differs from person to person.

    Hope I didn’t confuse you too much :)

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  5. ningauble3020 Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:08 am

    There are questions that are answerable through investigation, reflection, and experimentation. Then there are the philosophical “chicken and egg” questions that really have no specific answer. They are too subjective and untestable. “Is green gross?” is an example of these kind of subjective, go with your gut questions.

    For what its worth, people are what they think, feel, and do in various contexts. When you sing or act or create, that’s one role you play. When you are jogging or chatting up a friend, that’s another. The sum of your roles is you. Also, you changes from year to year. Are you the same person exactly as when you were 5 years old? No. You’ve learned skills and knowledge and a host of other things that changed you. The brain changes over time through neuroplasticity, growth, and such. Psychologists say that personality solidifies in your thirties. So unless there are major behavioral changes or trauma, you’ll probably stay you the rest of your days.

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  6. misslane Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:13 am

    I am not agree with you, I think that we have to be the reflect of what we do, because if we take a decision, we can make mistakes or not but it’s our essence and what you see, it’s how we are!!

    it would be this way, but all of us know that this is not 100% right because there are hypocritical people in this world (Sadly) and it’s when you have to put all your senses to know how is the people who’s by your side.

    /(hahaha i don’t know if you have understand somthing)
    thanks for sharing this crazy moments with us Allison.
    Finally I see the Allison I wanted to see… you were lost baby

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  7. jonny Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:39 am

    how… cheese…? i agree but the cheese puzzles me. elaborate. but if we were judged by what we destroy I would be like evil… :D

    YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Jonny.

    oh yh and smallville owns. :)

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  8. The Friday Philosopher Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 3:53 am

    I believe that it is our actions or inactions that define us to the world, but it is the silent choices we make in the dark recesses of our mind that define who we are, or rather a part of who we are!

    I know, first hand that the actions we take can change parts of who we are, and I believe that this involuntary change is necessary for survival. If maybe only, survival of the mind!

    Some people believe that we are born the person we are going to be, and others believe that it is the influences’ around us that shape who we are. I don’t really think it matters which, or even if any of the answers are correct.

    I try to always be polite, kind and considerate to others, for my own reasons, but neither politeness, kindness nor consideration defines who I am to me.

    I might carry all three labels if you ask my family and friends, but I believe that we are all much more than the simple accumulation of the actions we take and the choices we make.

    Friday

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  9. Fable Fox Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:00 am

    Allison, in your earliest blog post for this site, you mentioned that you’re very lucky, which I write in a reply, “yeah, Allison, you’re very lucky.”

    So, how do you define luck, Allison. And why do you think that you’re lucky?

    Just a question from an unlucky guy, Fable Fox.

    http://www.fablefox.com

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  10. Sam Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:22 am

    I think it is more the “cause” (decisions make in our mind) of our actions (if those are consequences of a kind of reflection) that can help to understand what we are. The actions can be misinterprated, not the “causes” because we can explain them. Then, I think the question should be “Why do other people define us by our act?”. Personnal answer: because it’s easy, it does not require a deep reflection about. But, the idea we make about the others according to their actions is surely incomplete and maybe (often?) wrong. So the question is “How to know someone? and further, when do you consider that you know the person?

    Sam

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  11. Kris Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:31 am

    The definition of me is the sum of where I’ve been and where I’d like to go.

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  12. Kathy Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 6:27 am

    I like this Allison!

    We are not defined by our jobs/careers but rather the way we live, by the choices we do or do not make–AWESOME :) :)

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  13. Jimmy Valentime Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 7:00 am

    This is totally off topic

    But I made an mp.3 out of Allison performance of “shade” and wanted to share it with everybody …

    http://www.zshare.net/audio/1393101969726bd4/

    Also Alison did you see the dark knight yet ?

    that poped n my head becase your talking about acting …

    Heath ledger Joker is like watching Brando in “Street Car Name Desire” its one of those the actor complete disappers in to the role things….

    You and another blooger influenced me to start my site … that’s why you are frist on my blogger roll

    Have a fun weekend,

    JV

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  14. Jennygirl Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 7:50 am

    I think what we do is a clue to what we value, conciously or subconciously, and should be pondered from time to time. As in….”How am I spending my time?”…”Is this really what I value?” Sort of as an exercise to get us going in the path we would like to CONCIOUSLY take.

    And…the saying “actions speak louder than words”…although trite…I think does have truth. I have acquantances who are all talk about helping…being there for you…but when it comes down to it…are not someone who actually “shows up”.

    I would rather be the friend who, instead of talking about it…or thinking about it…I actually show up.

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  15. Kyle Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 8:38 am

    Wow, that blog made my head spin; heh. I tend to define myself in what I am going to do next. Everyone makes mistakes, and we’re all discovering more and more about ourselves. I think what we plan to do with our new perspective defines us.

    Actions speak louder than words?…blah, blah — yeah that’s true. People can change; and more importantly we grow. I truly believe we grow by both thought and action. We need both to be better people.

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  16. bourdieu Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 9:46 am

    Why do you need to make a distinction between an “inner” and “outer” self? Why does one need to be more “true” than the other? Both can be the true self. Lacan, Deleuze and Guattari, and even Zizek are the people to read on these issues. Or Plato, Decartes, Heidegger. Lots of very smart people have wrestled with these problems over thousands of years, so their works are worth reading. Or even try Alain De Botton, as a populist author.

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  17. Alyssa Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:29 am

    Allison,

    Props to you, that was beautifully written and explained. However, of course it began the inner workings of my mind to frolick, and hence I came up with this; try your hardest to understand, sometimes the things I write make no sense:

    We define ourselves by what we do because it bestows in us a sense of comfort. Sometimes, we are not willing to explore the other factors of what we can focus on to define who we are…so we seemingly do the easiest thing possible, and the most common: believe that what we do defines who we are. Exploring new ideas brings forth the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty, not to mention the clarification that being human, and living life essentially, is sometimes much harder to go through when you know more, or choose to analyze more about yourself, and about life, than if you were to avoid such further analyzation at all costs. Henceforth, overall it might contribute to the explanation of why it is statistically proven that very smart, intelligent people are likelier to have mental problems than not. Essentially, that old saying “what you don’t know won’t hurt you” comes back to haunt us.

    Although all in all the things we do are simply an effect of ourselves, and not so much defining who we are—that brings forth the idea that there is more to analyze, more to discover about ourselves, and henceforth; more fear.

    Just a thought.

    Peace, Light, and Love,
    Alyssa

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  18. Medina Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:36 am

    So Matrix…

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  19. alphakitty Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 11:26 am

    actions vs being. sounds like the left brain (actions) – right brain (being) video. they must exist together. they are BOTH you/me/us.

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  20. Billy George Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 11:37 am

    Hi Allison! Well, what Kyle wrote and think is totally true for me. I think that everybody’s looking for something and sometimes the mistakes just appear in front of us. But we must confront them. So Kyle, thanks for wrote about what I’m thinking and Allison thanks for everything. Have a nice day all of you! Adios. Perdonen mi Inglés.

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  21. Joey Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:01 pm

    Good Morning Miss Mack,

    Don’t worry ! Just be in harmony with your soul. As i read your last message, you just probably need to be a little bit more a light to yourself in a world that is actually becoming dark. As i can understand thanks to your words, you are a very sensitive personn and most of all you really can feel marvellous energies that are located at the deepest of both your heart and soul. It is always a great pleasure to meet and see enlightened people. Dear Miss Allison Mack, you are a great curious and lover of life. That’s so pretty good ans so exciting. At the very moment, you propably just have to take a deep breathe, relax and feel the peace inside your mind again as a way of surfing gracefuly between trees in the forest of life just as i have told you a couple of days ago. And you really can because you’ve got such a powerful potential. To be is a simple motion where we can feel the unlimited stream of life in its entire process. You know Miss Mack, we have to be as an empty cup ! We have to get rid of our prejudices or preconceived ideas. We haven’t to be the fire or the water but neutral on the waves of life. Because of the wonderful enlightenment, we can surf between trees without crashing against them. How could we taste a new tea if our cup is already full ? Do you know why the cup is so important ? Simply because the cup is empty ! We have to be like an empty cup everytime. Then that’s when we are making something that we are learning to do it ! A personn who’s acting is a personn who’s learning. And most of all, our soul movements are going with our actions. Finally, the Wu Wei of Taoïsme is fundamentally the natural action as well as the expression of our life in its entire and deep process. We have to be as an empty cup. But remember Miss Mack, the very use of the cup reside in the fact that there’s nothing into it !

    Have a very good week-end,
    Take a precious care of yourself,

    Please, give my regard to Tabby.

    Your friend always,
    Joey L.

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  22. taylor nikole Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:07 pm

    Last night my friend said something to me like:

    “Pain and hardship are our best teachers. They teach us about ourselves, giving us knowledge that, otherwise, would never be known. but it is love that gives us the strength and character that, otherwise could never be known”

    He said it so beautifuly that I was wondering if he was quoting something… I’m still not sure, but I couldn’t find anything on it. Although I wouldn’t be suprised if it had just popped right out of his head. He’s an amazing guy.

    I’m not sure, i heard it and had to share it. Whether he said it or was quoting it, I thought everyone would enjoy it.
    And if you want… share your thoughts.. tell me watcha think.
    :D
    it would be nice

    <3 taylor nikole

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  23. David Hayes Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:33 pm

    In reply to Taylor Nikole,

    I have been taught well … and have the scares to show it. That’s probably why there’s the saying that “ignorance is bliss” … because pain and hard luck are great teachers. It would be easier on everyone if learning from example and the experiences of others came back into fashion.

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  24. David Hayes Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:34 pm

    “scares” translates “scars”

    Post in haste — regret at leisure.

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  25. Kevin Winters Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:42 pm

    We define ourselves through what we do because at every moment we are always engaged in some probject in some way, even when we ‘take a step back’ and reflect or meditate, the reflection and meditation is always related to our engagement, even if it is ‘only’ in the here and now.

    The key to seeing that we are not *merely* our actions, however, is to understand that our actions are always in relation to wider contexts: you write this blog (a particular way of being engaged in the world) to reflect on your own life, to interact with fans, to extend your influence, etc. Blog-writing, in fact, is meaningful only because of its intents, its participations with other objects (the internet, computers, etc.), your relation to other people (actress to fan, friend to friend, etc.) and such. The list of in-order-tos is always extensive, even in the smallest action, so that we aren’t *just* our actions because actions are never *just* actions, but essentially rely on these other expansive relations. You and your actions are part of a greater whole without which they would be meaningless.

    Sorry, I’ve studied a lot of Heidegger, one of the great ‘existentialists’ (though he didn’t like the term because of how Sartre hijacked its meaning from his _Being and Time_…long story), and really enjoy these kinds of discussions. Hope the above was at least somewhat intelligible.

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  26. Amanda Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 12:57 pm

    So, I’m sitting at my desk at work this afternoon, crazy busy, with more to do than time to do it in. I love my job. I thought I’d take a second and check out Allison’s blog of the day. I love reading it and the responses–it’s kind of an oasis in the midst of chaos. A second to chill out and read what this community of deep thinkers has come up with. And, ok truth time…I’m 31 years old, really I’m a grown up, but for just a second I felt like a fangirl… OMG Allison Mack quoted me… Awww.

    Back to the blog–I think one particular action may not necessarily define who we are. Every thing we say and do represents who we are. But, if we do one thing that is in direct conflict with how we understand ourselves–does that change who we are? I don’t think so. People will always make mistakes. The key is to learn from them and move on. To take that knowledge, apply what we’ve learned to our lives and to not let that one moment define who we are.

    We also have to be careful that we don’t hold on to other people’s mistakes. If we aren’t willing to be defined by one single action, we should have that same standard for others.

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  27. Arwen Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 1:26 pm

    Hi Allison,

    Sometimes, behaviour is against our believings (“disonancia cognitiva” in Spanish, I think a good translation is cognitive dissonance), like when we act the way our friends, family or society wants to, so actions may not be what we “are”. I think that what defines being is a group of: cognitions (believings, thinkings), emotions, motivations and behaviour.

    Some could think it’s a psichologycal definition. It’s true.

    from overseas, Arwen Caban

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  28. The Friday Philosopher Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:02 pm

    The statement bellow flashed into my head admittedly after Amanda mentioned her age but I have been thinking on this for most of the day!

    “Age is immaterial when the thoughts your intellect engenders are as eternal and as profound as a universe full of iridescent stars!”

    I have noticed that the people who post on this site and even the blog creator herself range in age from fifteen years, to upwards of fifty, yet despite the difference in age between us all, here we are conversing over whether or not our actions are a direct representation of our selves!

    Some might think this common place; perhaps there are some among us who hold knowledge or experience in what ever the given topic may be, but I find this fascinating. As far as I can tell the majority of the people who post on this site are you average everyday hard working individuals. We have jobs and families and friends and lives outside of this site, yet the level of intellectual conversational debate we share amazes me!

    Without the diversity of the people and the comments you post on this site, my life would be like a single player version of baseball I have a bat, but the pitcher is nowhere to be seen!

    I would just like to say thank you to you all. Thank you for stepping up to the mound!

    Friday

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  29. alphakitty Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:11 pm

    if you never act on your being, is it still true? can you BE a loving person if you never SHOW love? don’t they have to go together?

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  30. Claude Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:41 pm

    I agree, actions alone do not define you.

    But (IMHO) actions + motivations can reveal the real you. The problem is, while anyone can observe your actions, your motivations are hidden within you. Your motivations are also not always readily apparent to you, often you have to work to know and understand them.

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  31. taylor nikole Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 2:56 pm

    david,
    i agree
    i think its a gift to have the experience of the pain and hardship as a teacher..
    yet its also something in some cases that people shouldnt have to… well ‘learn’ that way.
    Thanks for the reply
    I know through life… experience is the one thing that is my real teacher and seems to play a major role in my life.

    <3 taylor nikole

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  32. jonny Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 3:05 pm

    ive done a lot of bad stuff that im not proud of and i would give anything to take it back and apologise to all the people ive hurt.
    i probably sound like some evil psycho but ive changed and people dont remember me for what ive done. well some do but i remember who i am and how i now make people feel when i help people out of all kinds of crazy, crazy crap. so now i know i am a good person. :) :) :) :)

    allison i heart you lol you rock hehe :D GO YOU!

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  33. paul Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    “Why do you need to make a distinction between an “inner” and “outer” self? Why does one need to be more “true” than the other?”

    I agree. It is tempting (and flattering!) to think that one’s self is entirely unique and self-created, but I think that we are instead the product of a thousand greater and lesser influences. With luck, one’s “self” is constantly being modified and refined.

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  34. ningauble3020 Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:39 pm

    If you are a first-language English speaker, you speak English and probably live surrounded by English-related verbal culture. So too with other languages. Self is shaped strongly by environmental factors, including genes, phsyiology, choices, behavior between the ears as thinking and external of the body. The self is a composite construct of contingent events (being born into an English speaking family) and larger more chaotic events (the British colonies in America revolting). Take for another chaotic event a stroke. Oftentimes stroke victims lose half of their brain and remain paralyzed on half their body. Their personalities often undergo a change, including loss of short-term memory and a slew of other problems. That would be an example of the catastrophic event that radically altered who you are.

    So the self as a completely independent construct doesn’t seem realistic to me. Interdependent seems a more appropriate word. Then there is the question of causality. Which factors caused a certain event. Let’s say you are thinking about the meaning of life. Did you learn this along the way or was there a genetic/biological reason or some combination that you are thinking those very thoughts?

    Here’s my hunch. You’re lost. You want a clear guiding light to shine and show you the way to a meaningful and stable existence. You want some insight to help you feel less emotional turmoil. Maybe you think that pondering the imponderables will help you out of the mess. I disagree respectfully. I think rumination will lead to depression and ennui. I used to be a great ruminator and it took a toll not only on my life but on others around me. These kind of philosophical questions, for my money, are a waste of your energies. Invest in making your own meaning.

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  35. Robin Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 4:51 pm

    Hi Allison,

    Maybe we are better defined by not what we do but how we react to events.

    I guess it’s the old debate over nature or nurture, are we defined by what we do? ,
    DO our memories of events drive our decisions, or is it based on our souls or human spirit?…I don’t know, what do you all think?

    What makes each of us do the things we do, why am I the way I am…what defines our personalities, what is it that makes us choose each and every decision , from our career, partners to deciding what colour T-shirt to wear?

    Great topic, it’s got me confused alright.

    Keep having fun,

    Robin

    England

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  36. alphakitty Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 5:13 pm

    “You’re lost.” – check!

    “You want a clear guiding light to shine and show you the way to a meaningful and stable existence.” – check!

    “You want some insight to help you feel less emotional turmoil.” – check!

    “Maybe you think that pondering the imponderables will help you out of the mess.” – check!

    “I think rumination will lead to depression and ennui.” – hmmmm….

    so we may never understand our lives, our world or our places in it? that IS kinda depressing. but i see where you are coming from. it does all seem very heavy, confusing and consuming. then why do we all seem to find ourselves here, wondering, contemplating these very things?

    but really, ningauble, what made you give up your quest for answers? i’m curious. and has it been beneficial to put the curiosity aside? you see, curiosity killed the cat, and well, i’m a kitty so i could be in for a world of hurt :)

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  37. Arash Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 7:38 pm

    I think I understand the empty cup of joey. Rumi uses “Reed” to discribe the same thing. I also read a beautiful metaphor of “Reed” once in a religious book I thought it might be worth mentioning.
    Well Reed is a wind instrument made from a hollow joint of a plant.
    Persian and Indian Reeds have a very deep sound, I actually have one.

    Now to make the instrumet they have to make it hollow for the air flow.
    They say we humans are like the reed.
    All the riches of spritual world are constantly blowing.
    You just have to make yourself empty of all earthly desires,
    then you will sound beautifuly and everyone else will enjoy it.

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  38. David Hayes Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 9:18 pm

    I always liked an example given about the meaning of life and human limitations. It talks about a chimp in a cage at a research facility. All the chimp knows is that everyday, some man in a white smock comes in and sticks a needle in his arm and it hurts. The chimp can try to understand but the best he can do is decide that the man in the white coat likes hurting him. The man in the white coat would never be able to explain to the chimp that the blood he is taking from the chimp may lead to a cure for a deadly form of cancer. The chimp isn’t capable of understanding. Likewise, though we have wonderful senses and have enhanced and extended them through our technology, maybe it simply isn’t possible for us to understand the meaning of our existance. We just have to have faith that it is all for some greater purpose … or not.

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  39. alphakitty Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 9:45 pm

    seriously. my brain hurts.

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  40. Robin Hebert Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:04 pm

    All I can say is: Love is the Answer, Now what was the question? hahahah I love that one.

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  41. Bouroux Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:18 pm

    Hi Allison

    “why do we define ourselves by what we do?”
    Because, When we do an action, it is ourself who make the decision to do.
    The most important element when we take a decision is the judgement.

    What is it for you Allison have judgement?

    How can one define the judgement?
    Judgement is the evaluation of a situation which a majority of people goods informed of our society would have.
    At the legal level, the evaluation is done by a judge or a jury.
    At work, is what distinguishes the technician and professional. The latter must use its judgement more often as part of his work.
    How to acquire judgement? Although this has nothing to do with the amount of knowledge that we have, the university are gone. Our experiences and those of others. You have to know yours limitations, have principles, be open to the views of others and be surrounded by people who have good judgement.
    At work, each in its standard of judgement and accountability of its decisions for the big boss as the concierge.
    What purpose does the judgement in our personal lives? To avoid making mistakes that most people well informed would not do so.
    What limits our judgement?
    Our emotions, our honesty, our principles, if we can be easily influenced to look cool.
    Why know your limits is so important.
    Take the case of a person passionate surrounded by other passionate people.
    It is important to consult someone who is not passionate in whom you trust. More importantly reflect its opinion in our decision.
    The great strength of actors, singers and artists is their emotions. It is through these emotions they achieve extraordinary things. It is against a risk factor that makes some have lost control of their lives. It’s important to stay well grounded.
    The indices of errors of judgement.
    When people close to you, your long dates friends, your family, significant person in your work are concerned about one of your decisions, it is important to ask why. What are the hidden interests of those who are for.

    “You can learn about yourself by reflecting on the actions you have taken, thereby gleaning information on things about yourself you may not have previously been aware of, but ultimately the things you do are simply an effect of you and not you yourself.”

    Why make mistakes that can be prevented by the judgement. Take lessons from the mistakes of others.

    The perception that people have of our actions do not describe what we are really. They combine to action and we must work very hard to change this perception.
    Many errors youth could have been avoided.
    It is very distressing to be told that there was a lack of judgement when you have great aspirations in life. How to trust a person who lacks judgement.

    In the blog Patterns you said:
    Me:
    Passionate and a bit reckless.

    How to reconcile this statement with the judgement? It’s like water and fire, life and death.

    Have a good weekend.
    Take care of you.

    Bye

    Claude.

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  42. Arash Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:36 pm

    True story;
    A summer day.
    Taking subway to work.
    someone jumped, the train stoped.
    Time ticking and no more trains.
    Numbers adding,
    On the platforem.
    The man in expensive suit.
    The old woman, the crying child.
    Finally another train. Full of numbers.
    room for one.
    Time Ticking, the old woman, the crying child.
    the man in expensive suit losens the neck tie.
    another train, full of numbers.
    time ticking, numbers adding.
    the cane is shaking, the baby screaming,
    another train, room for one.
    the man in expensive suit, pushing the numbers.
    doors are closed.
    train leaves.
    the cane is shaking, the baby is crying.
    and there is a neck tie on the platform.
    true story.
    ——————-
    Someone told me once rich people are better people.
    I grew up watching robin hood I said not nessassrily.
    But isn’t that true that crime rate increases with poverty.
    It is not just money my point is; How much pressure can we take before we lose our humanity. How strongly we value our values.
    I have a feeling this might be related to the subject;
    What we do and who we are.
    We are civilized people, we have manners, we care about the little dove staying out in snow, lets call humane society.
    I am a very spritual person as long as you don’t put me in a war zone.

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  43. Matthew Says:
    July 25th, 2008 at 10:49 pm

    I Have a question that i have been struggling to find an answer for…….here it goes

    ….How seriously should we be taking life?…..
    i dont mean that in a derogatory way..i mean how seroiusly should we spend the time in our lives…what are we expected to accomplish in our lifetime….just something to think about

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  44. david Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 12:54 am

    I think i understand what you are saying? For you there are two sides only cause of the business you are in. The public side, and the private side. The question then falls to which one is really you? The answer is both to some extent depending on how much of yourself you want to share.

    For me, everything is very simple. No matter where you go in the world a tree is still a tree. Grass is green, and the sky is blue. Actions, or no actions my answer to this would be ” I am”.

    To put it simply we are on a timed schedule. We are lucky to get a good 80 years. What we do with it? How we want to be percieved, and remembered is up to each of us.

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  45. Joey Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 2:20 am

    PS : Dear Arash, I would like to thank you for your very fine attentions and understanding.
    Once again, that’s a great pleasure to note that there’s people with great and fine potential. That’s pretty good and so exciting. I know about Persian and Indian Reeds. It was very nice of you to post the message.

    Take care and have fun,

    My respectful regard to Miss Mack and Tabby.

    Your Friend Always,
    Joey L.

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  46. Stephanie Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 4:08 am

    Seriously this blog makes me think more about what I do and why I do it then anything else at the moment. This is all very deep stuff!!

    Why do we define ourselves by what we do?
    I really really liked Anthony V’s view on things “Our actions that we take (and even the ones we dont take) describe us and how we’ve been formed from all of our experiences. In the end, they do help tell a story of who we are. We use them as a guide on how we should live our life. And it differs from person to person” You people are soooo much better with words then I am!

    * Runs of to ponder some more!

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  47. paul Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 1:09 pm

    ningauble:

    “Maybe you think that pondering the imponderables will help you out of the mess. I disagree respectfully. I think rumination will lead to depression and ennui.”

    Perhaps only if one is pondering in hopes of coming to an absolute, final answer. If this search is regarded as a process, as a life-long education, then I believe it is uplifting. In fact, if I had to choose, I’d say that therein lies the meaning of life.

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  48. Darwin Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 6:04 pm

    I would have to disagree with you Allison.

    A person who has truth…but does not live it…THIS does define
    him or her.

    Atticus Finch (as a group of us on your site are reading TO KILL A
    MOCKINGBIRD right now) knew that Tom Robinson was innocent of the crime accused.

    But…

    …if he did NOTHING about it…

    THAT would have defined him as a much different kind of person.

    And NOT the greatest cinematic hero as some have voted him.

    *smiles* Like in the first Batman movie!

    “It is not who we are inside that matters…but what we DO that defines us!”

    The world does not change for the better by thinking happy happy thoughts…

    “What you do speaks so loud that I cannot hear what you say!”
    Ralph Waldo Emerson

    “Men of action intervene only when the orators are finished.” Emile Gaboriau

    “Patience has it’s limits. Take it too far and it is cowardice.” George Jackson

    “Talk that does not end in any kind of action is better suppressed altogether.” Thomas Carlyle

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  49. Marilyne Says:
    July 26th, 2008 at 6:13 pm

    Hi Allison!

    As a 18 year-old girl, that will have to choose a University and a program this automn… I can say that even if I think I know what I want and/or what I’m gonna do in the next few years, I think that the idea of choosing or affirm something that seems to be irreversible is kinda scary for everyone. Only few years ago, people worked their entire life having the same job for 30 years straight. Nowadays, it seems like a “stable career” or even a stable job is unrealistic. I don’t quite know if it’s a good or a bad thing…Change is definitively a great thing, but even at 18, choosing a certain path to achieve a goal is kinda hard because I feel like I’m going to be trapped by that choice later… However, I hope that whatever the choices I’ll make in the future are going to influence in a good way my life and own development.

    thanks for your deep thoughts and sharings! :D

    * Can’t wait to watch the new episodes!!! ;p

    xoxo

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  50. ningauble3020 Says:
    July 27th, 2008 at 1:49 pm

    Alpha Kitty & friends:

    I don’t find these kind of philosophical musings productive for me. That is not to say that some personalities may find them stimulating. Not at all! We are, to borrow a cliche, all snowflakes. I used to be what you might call an existentialist until I realized there was, as Paul above on this post said, no final answer. I did this kind of thinking during quiet times throughout my twenties and it drove me batty.

    Is the grass green or emerald or light green or “hunter green”? Will this really fulfill my potential if I do this job or that job or no job? Ultimately, my answer was “who gives a fuck?” I’ve got enough to eat, a great life, enough money to buy what I need & want, and I make my own meaning. You can drive yourself mad asking unanswerable questions. “What if I die and there is nothing there?” The question won’t change what I value in life. I’ll still want to work in my chosen profession, still want to eat, shit, and sleep. Probably in that order.

    When I say rumination, I mean that constant, gnawing worry, not just asking philosophical questions for fun. If that’s your bag, have at it. It isn’t for me. I prefer questions that you can answer with evidence.

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  51. David Harvey Says:
    July 28th, 2008 at 7:33 pm

    If the actions we take, the choices we make do not define us, then what does? What says who we are? When we reflect on a friend, loved-one, collegue, or acquaintence; do we not reach our conclusions about what we know of them? Tangibles are what we leave in our stead, they are, I think what defines us. Even things that maybe defined as intangible (i.e. unspoken communication simply through eye contact) leaves tangible conclusions.

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