Somebodyness

Are Our Thoughts About Who We Are Actually Who We Are?

Apr 22, 2025

— Eckhart Tolle

Dear Friends,

I used to work for Richard Gere, back when he was one of the most popular actors of our day.

When I started the job, all I had to say was that I was reaching out from his office, and my phone calls and emails were returned quite promptly.

I knew I wasn’t special—but I was a “somebody” by association, and that was enough.

But after I left the job, I quickly realized that my “somebodyness” had left with it. The prompt replies stopped.

I initially thought, “Shit, what happened to my somebodyness?” I had really enjoyed it!

It was as if my status had vanished overnight, stolen quietly by a thief in the night.

OUR STORIES OF WHO WE ARE

I’m not sure there’s a better practice than watching the stories our minds create—not judging them, just watching.

When we’re unaware, life becomes centered around a single pursuit: How do I become a more important “me” and get others to believe the story I tell myself about who I am?

We don’t realize that these stories are just that—stories.

Ram Dass said:

“As long as you identify with your mind, you are somebody, and as long as you are somebody, you can be insulted. But when you become nobody, who is there to be insulted?”

Easier said than done of course, but we live in a world run by stories, and the more aware we are, the more freedom we have.

It is not about conditions. You can be the famous person in the world, and know the stories are not real … or the most destitute person and think the stories are real.

TODAY

Today, as we make our way in the world, can we notice the stories that arise? Can we become curious? What stories do we hold about who we are? Are they true?

May we all find deeper clarity and open-heartedness, no matter how the world outside of us unfolds.

Blessings,

SOREN