How many times have we heard these words: "know yourself"?

We find them inscribed in Greek on the pediment of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, though their original meaning remains uncertain. Over time, the concept has been echoed in various philosophical and religious traditions. Personally, I see in this phrase a possibility: the invitation to explore within ourselves, to embrace our inner depths. To discover, know, and learn to understand them.

Almost a year ago, I created this virtual space, choosing to include a section dedicated to blogging. The decision stemmed from a desire to give personal meaning to what I was experiencing at the time. And, at the same time, to contribute — if only in a small way — to a shared sense of meaning for those who might read my words.

Year after year, growing, learning, making mistakes, and learning again, I’ve come to understand just how real the concept of lifelong learning is: the idea that learning never truly ends. There is always something new to discover, to go through — and that, in turn, can pass through us, leaving something behind. It’s up to us to allow that, and then to decide what to do with whatever is left.

My own search for meaning unfolds mainly through reading and through the relationships I’ve built over time with those I’ve met along the way. Through every imperfection and every gift, I’ve added another piece to what was — and still is — important to me. It’s a dialogue with myself, with others, with life. Sharing it gives me the opportunity to create connection — with myself, with others, with life.

Let’s pause for a moment, in this world that moves fast and is made of races and rushing. Let’s observe what’s around us. No clichés. No “5 ways to…” lists, and so on.

“Thinking is our highest faculty, what distinguishes us from inanimate matter and the animal world,” writes psychologist Ameya Gabriella Canovi in her book Inside Me, There’s a Beautiful Place (if you're interested in psychology or personal growth, I highly recommend it).

Let’s really pause. Let’s remember that to live is to change, that life is a constant becoming — a flow. We’re always changing. But changing with awareness is something else entirely.

“To evolve, to grow, to become self-determined are processes that require things like self-awareness, courage, knowledge, and capability. Becoming People means giving meaning to our existence on this earth,” Canovi continues.

Mariangela Gualtieri gently whispers to us through her poems: “There is splendor in everything.” And when we pause, we can begin to notice that splendor. It’s not always immediately visible, but once we find the path, it will be there, it will become visible.

Not everything will always be celebratory, and we won’t always be ready or equipped with the skills we need to face life’s challenges. And that’s where know yourself can come in to help us. To add that little piece of awareness, day by day, that allows us to feel and understand that we are human — and that it’s okay. To look at ourselves with kindness.

There is splendor in everything — especially in this. In being human.