An expression I’ve heard time and time again is that we wear different masks among different crowds, figuratively for the most part. I certainly can’t know what other’s experience is, but I find myself switching “masks” frequently. Therapy has been a nice place where I’m finding out what is really behind the mask.
Mask or Truth
For many years, a favorite game of mine has been The Legend of Zelda Majora’s Mask. To oversimplify, in it, you play as a young hero whose adventure has his donning many masks. Different masks offer different interactions with the land’s many residents. I’ve always enjoyed not only the mechanic of the masks, but the symbolism as well.
In my own life, I often reflect, finding myself acting in so many different ways. One could call this acting my masks. To hopefully not come across as too cliché, I sometimes find it difficult to pin down what my genuine self is.
Different groups or individuals seem to bring out different characteristics in me. Some for better, and some for worse. I don’t know if it’s the others that bring out these characteristics, or if I act in such a way that’s expected. Don the mask.
Our masks can help us in various places. The difference in our attitudes and behavior on karaoke night and at a job is probably for the best. Despite what sitcoms and silicon valley may inspire. While they are helpful, it’s also important to find time to shed these masks, or else we might mistake who we are for them. Changing from one mask to another, never finding a moment to really be ourselves.
Unmasking
While my therapist is certainly getting to know me more as time goes on, there’s still a barrier that separates us. This doesn’t only come in the form of the online service, but also that our relationship is limited.
In the sessions so far, I’ve tried to remove any ego when it comes to what I share. Having a place to truly open up is helping me to find that true self once again.
Trying Out Before Buying In 