When do you define yourself?

Identity.

That's one thing we like to flail about in times of extreme introspection. In heated battles with myself, I sketch myself a blueprint, and build myself a foundation to erect the person I think of myself as.

But, where do the ideas come from? Whose plans are my castle based on? Is the cement not adulterated with popular culture, role-models, peer acceptance, a trace of escape, a hint of shame?

Is the concrete concrete?

These were the myriad thoughts trespassing my normally empty and peaceful head while we performed Navratri Aarti at my place today. I connected with the "rituals of yore". The very humdrum traditional practices that I used to frown upon, now provided me solace and a sense of belonging.

Something I can identify with.

I love it when I contradict myself. It's a sign of growth. Or so, I console myself. ;)