Who are we, experientially speaking?

The question “Who am I?” has long been at the center of our self-inquiry. When someone asks, “Who are you?” — what exactly is the experience of the “I” that responds?

As we reflect on our lives, from early childhood through youth and into older age, we may notice something subtle but profound: the experience of being “me” has never changed. Our bodies have grown, our thoughts have evolved, and our roles have shifted. Yet, the feeling that “we are here,” that “we are aware,” has remained constant. There is a sameness, a steady presence that silently accompanies every moment of life.

But when we try to describe ourselves, we often turn to things that change — our bodies, our gender, our names, our personalities, our preferences. We identify with these shifting aspects and believe them to be who we are. In doing so, we overlook the one who is observing all these changes. We forget the part of us that never changes — the silent witness within.

This unchanging presence, the one that knows and observes, is what we call awareness. Awareness does not judge. It has no opinion. It is still, open, and calm. Because of these qualities, it can see all the changes in our outer experience — our feelings, emotions, identities, likes and dislikes, and the roles we play. Most of us believe these changeable aspects to be our true selves, but they are only the facade we wear to move through the world.

We act out different roles depending on our environment. At home, we might be a parent. At work, a colleague. In social situations, perhaps a leader or a helper. These roles are practical and useful, helping us navigate life. But they are not the core of who we are.

By recognizing this, we begin to understand that we are made of two aspects. One is the outer self — the facade that adapts and engages with the world, making daily life more manageable. The other is the inner core — the silent awareness that watches it all. And in this realization, we come to know the depth of our inner Being.

Two Aspects of Our Being

In each of us, there are two aspects that define our being. One is changeable, ever-shifting, and temporary—our thoughts, feelings, emotions, our body, and the sensations we experience. These are the things we often identify with, the aspects that create our persona and shape our daily lives. The other aspect, however, remains constant, untouched by time—the awareness within us. This awareness is the witness to all that changes, the stillness behind the whirlwind of thoughts and sensations.

The Mistake of Identification

For much of our lives, we forget this unchanging awareness and focus solely on the fluctuating aspects of ourselves. We chase after our thoughts, feelings, and desires, attempting to grasp hold of something that, by nature, is elusive. This chase leads to disappointment and suffering, as nothing in the world of change can ever be fully held or controlled. Our attempts to find lasting peace in this changeable world only deepen our sense of frustration.

Recognizing the True Self

Yet, deep down, there is a part of us that knows we are more than our thoughts and emotions. We know we are alive, conscious, and aware. But when we try to describe this part, we find it difficult. It’s intangible, not something we can touch or see. This awareness is not of the body or the mind—it is that which knows, that which witnesses all experiences without being moved by them. And it has always been there, the same in childhood, youth, and adulthood.

The Path to True Peace

The mistake we make is identifying ourselves with the ever-changing mind and body. This misidentification leads us into confusion, affecting how we interact with the world, solve problems, and relate to others. But the key to overcoming this confusion lies in recognizing our true nature as awareness, the unchanging presence within us.

When we come to realize that we are awareness, we find ourselves returning to a space of calmness and stillness, a place of inner peace that remains steady regardless of what happens around us. This awareness is our true self, and it has always been here, waiting to be recognized.