Who Am I Poem by Maryanne Richards

What is it that makes me, me
That seems so different from you
I am a body a brain and genetic past
I am ideas and ideals and conditioning that goes deep.
All these things you are too
These shadows of the mind
Am I really so different from you.

We compare and compete
Are envious and vain,
Can be angry and violent
And very afraid.
We struggle, are lonely, confused and in pain.
Experiences differ but life is the same.
Most want to be happy, have riches and fun,
Sorrow is the same for everyone.
Am I really so different from you

When we let go the outer and turn to the inner
These things may be seen as they are
But truth can't be seen through these shadows and memories,
What's needed is light, to destroy, and reveal,
That love is the product of nothing.
Then perhaps I'd be different from you.