--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: We have the choice of two identities: the…" description: "\"We have the choice of two identities: the external mask which seems to be real...and the hidden, inner person who seems to us to be nothing, but who ca..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/776/thomas-merton-231_being-real_we-have-the-choice-of-two-identities-the_808674.jpg" --- # We have the choice of two identities: the external mask… ![“We have the choice of two identities: the external mask which seems to be real...and the hidden, inner person who seems to us to be nothing, but who can give himself eternally to the truth in whom he subsists. (295)” quote by Thomas Merton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/776/thomas-merton-231_being-real_we-have-the-choice-of-two-identities-the_808674.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/776/thomas-merton-231_being-real_we-have-the-choice-of-two-identities-the_808674.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/776/thomas-merton-231_being-real_we-have-the-choice-of-two-identities-the_808674.jpg) > “We have the choice of two identities: the external mask which seems to be real...and the hidden, inner person who seems to us to be nothing, but who can give himself eternally to the truth in whom he subsists. (295)” [Thomas Merton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/thomas-merton/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. We can either present a superficial persona to the world or embrace a deeper, authentic self that aligns with eternal truth. **In simple terms:** Choose authenticity over superficiality. Key Takeaway Cultivate inner truth. Themes identity authenticity spirituality Mood contemplative introspective Type philosophical spiritual When to use this quote - personal relationships - leadership - therapy - spiritual practice - creative work Key Concepts selfhood truth mask inner self Questions to Reflect On - How do you differentiate your mask from your true self? - What practices reveal your inner authenticity? 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