Attachment to One’s Identity

A test of how attached you are to your identity:

You hold the door open for someone walking behind you. They walk in without looking at you or thanking you.

As you read this, your mind starts thrashing.

Part of you thinks that person has no manners.

Another part recalls that this isn’t the first time it has happened and tells you to stop being too nice and say something.

A different part insists that you should have no expectations of people — that doing the right thing should be its own reward.

Perhaps another part tries to craft the most clever or appropriate response to this situation so you appear the smartest. This happens of course hours after the fact.

Yet another part may choose another route and compose an elaborate argument about how wrong I am for even asking this question.

These thoughts spark various emotions: anger, regret, confusion. The more visceral those feelings are the stronger you are attached to the person you believe yourself to be.

Freedom lies in seeing all of these thoughts clearly — and choosing to do absolutely nothing in reaction to them.