Life is a Hall of Mirrors

Imagine a vast, reflective chamber surrounded by mirrors of various shapes and sizes. These mirrors are not mere glass and silver but the essence of our experiences, relationships, and worldview lenses.  

Created To Reflect Perception

We learn by observing others, especially during our formative years. Children, for example, often mirror their parents’ and caregivers’ behaviours, speech patterns, and values.   In modern society, the principle of mirroring what we behold is evident in various aspects of our lives. People often look to external influences and trends to emulate behaviours, beliefs, and lifestyles they perceive as desirable. In a broader social context, mirroring extends to our interactions with peers, friends, and colleagues.

We are influenced by the behaviours, attitudes, and values of those around us. If we consistently associate with individuals who exhibit certain traits or engage in particular activities, we are more likely to mirror those behaviours and traits over time. This can impact everything from hobbies and interests to political beliefs and lifestyle choices.  We seek to find ourselves in the world around us, and often, we mirror the ideals and values we believe will define our identity and purpose.

Deceitful Reflections 

Whether on our walls or societal constructs, mirrors shape our perception of reality. We meticulously adjust our appearance in the morning mirror, striving to present ourselves perfectly to the world. These mirrors offer reflections of how we want to be seen and acknowledged by others. Yet, these earthly mirrors have their flaws. They sometimes reflect aspects of ourselves that bring shame, fostering a distorted inner image. 

Remember the famous line, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?” – from the fairy tale “Snow White.” In this classic tale, the Evil Queen utters this phrase as she consults her magic mirror to confirm her status as the fairest in the land. However, the mirror eventually reveals that Snow White, the young princess, is the fairest. This revelation sets off a chain of events that drives the story’s plot, including the Queen’s attempts to harm Snow White out of jealousy. “Snow White” is a timeless story of our desire to see ourselves as perfect, complete, and most beautiful!

How tragic it must be if you have formulated your self-image all your life by looking in a distorted mirror.  Remember, practically, the best mirror cannot show you your back. We also cannot walk around with a mirror to constantly check if everything is still fine. Eventually, we begin to trust people and begin to see ourselves through their eyes.  Not all people are honest and truthful. Others are blunt and too rash with their opinions.  

As we enter the school of life, we get a reflection of our academic progress in quarterly reports, and some even get rewarded with leadership positions.  We get constant mirror feedback through sports competitions and academic exams and thus should form some self-reflection of who we are.  Yet many young adults still struggle with identity, meaning and purpose.  

Shame vs Honor 

The desire for a perfect image, the yearning for approval, recognition, or fame, and the reluctance to be photographed or seen in some cases can be attributed to a combination of psychological, sociocultural, and individual factors. Here’s an exploration of some of these factors:

People with higher self-esteem tend to seek positive feedback and validation, including likes and positive comments on their photos. They may perceive perfect images as a reflection of their self-worth.  Social media platforms often promote social comparison. Individuals compare their lives, appearances, and achievements to others. Posting perfect images can be a way to outperform or fit in with perceived societal standards. Receiving likes, comments, and shares on social media provides immediate validation and recognition. It can boost self-esteem and create a sense of belonging or importance. 

On the flip side, individuals who are shy or anxious about being photographed may fear judgment or negative feedback. They may prefer to avoid attention and criticism.

Cultural norms and expectations can play a significant role. In some cultures, modesty and humility are highly valued, which may discourage self-promotion and seeking fame.

Personality traits like extroversion and introversion can influence the desire for attention. Extroverts may be more comfortable seeking the spotlight, while introverts may prefer privacy.

The ONLY TRUE MIRROR

We are created in God’s image and are the most beautiful people when we reflect Him. Yet sometimes, we lose focus so easily and are enchanted by a false image of who we really are, leading to mistaken identity and consciousness.  In the Jewish temple, there was a sacred object known as the “bronze laver” or “bronze basin.” (Ex. 30). This basin was used for ceremonial washings by the priests.  The principle is: Before we enter and exit the temple, we need to be washed by the washing of the Word.  

Comparing the World’s Truth and the Word’s Truth 

The world tells us to follow our hearts, but Jesus said, “Follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

The world says, “Be true to yourself,” but Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves” (Matthew 16:24).

The world advises us to believe in ourselves, but Jesus said, “Believe in me” (John 14:1).

The world encourages us to live our truth, but Jesus declared, “I am the truth” (John 14:6).

The world often tells us to prioritize our happiness above all, but Jesus invites us to a deeper joy rooted in Him (John 15:11).

Look in the Reflection of God’s Word

Just like looking into a glass mirror, we are seeing a true reflection of our hearts. It requires a different kind of reflection and introspection that goes beyond the physical appearance and delves into the spiritual and emotional dimensions of the heart and soul.

Here are some steps and principles to help you see the true image and reflection of your heart:

1. Remain IN HIM 1 Corinthians 13:12 (NIV): “For now, we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” By continual conversation with God in inner prayer, we seek guidance and insight from God. Ask Him to reveal the true state of your heart. Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”
2. Study Scripture: The Bible serves as a spiritual mirror that can reflect the state of your heart. Reading and meditating on Scripture can help you understand God’s standards and His desires for your heart. Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as “sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
3. Seek Accountability: Share your spiritual journey with a trusted friend or mentor Proverbs 27:9 “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
4. Repentance and Forgiveness: We do not keep a car on the road by locking the steering wheel. We make continual small corrections.  In the same way, we REPENT daily, making small corrections daily to remain on course. (1 John 1:9).
5. Obedience James 1:23 (NIV): “Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror.” Engaging in acts of love, kindness, and service keeps you aligned with God’s heart.
6. Cultivate Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  We already have these fruits if we are born again, but the fruit of the Spirit reveals the Spirit of the Word.  These are the constant attitude and the mode of our heart.  
7. Keep Relationships Holy: Evaluate your relationships and interactions with others. How you treat and relate to people often reflects the condition of your heart. If you notice patterns of conflict, resentment, or unforgiveness, it may signal areas that need attention.