The masks we wear

Psychologist Carl Jung once stated that one of the most prominent archetypes in our dreams is the ‘visage’–a representation of the masks we wear everyday. How many of us can remain true to ourselves when facing peer pressure on a daily basis? We’re so conscious of other people’s opinions, we feel that we need constant confirmation that we are accepted, that we fit the norm. This insecurity, so often, had urged us to alter our demeanor in the face of others, all for the sake of our zealous need to fit in.

The question we don’t ask ourselves enough is ‘why not?’; why would those who matter to us not like us for our true selves? Shel Silverstein, a famous poetic and artist, asked the same question. The picture below is one of my favorites by Silverstein, an accurate depiction of our willingness to compromise our identity for the sake of conformity. What we don’t understand is the magnitude of impact this visage could have on us. “Sometimes you wear a mask for so long,  you forget who you were.”–V, V for Vendetta. Would it really be worthwhile to give up who you are to appease people that do not matter?

Masks, another beautiful piece by Silverstein, preaches to us the consequences of not being true to yourself. The poem tells us a story about two people who could potentially be soul-mates, but lost that chance by hiding behind their masks. To surround yourself with people who will understand you, you have to stand up against peer pressure, let them know that there is more to you behind that mask.