Symbols, weapons, and tools

Objects and materials that exist outside of your cocoon of flesh, are not typically considered part of oneself.
But humans, story-tellers that we are, have character. And there are objects, materials, and even people - but that's a story for another day - that are quintessential to the characters that we have.

These objects are symbols, tools, and weapons.

Symbols -

Symbology, insignias, logos, tattoos, wallpapers, decor, configuration, are subtle reminders we set around us to remind of us of our character. The lion, the symbol of the Lannisters in the popular book series, Game of Thrones, was a reminder to themselves and to the rest of Westeros, who the kings of the jungle were. But symbols go deeper than mere decoration - they are the visual mantras we surround ourselves with. The entrepreneur's vision board, filled with images of success. The soldier's flag patch, worn close to the heart. The writer's cherished first rejection letter, framed on the wall. These tokens serve as anchors, tethering us to our aspirations and principles when the winds of doubt blow strong.

Tools -

Tools help us navigate the world a little better. Your choice of tools reveals volumes about your character and approach to life's challenges. The craftsman's calloused hands grip worn tools passed down through generations, each nick and scratch a testament to problems solved and pieces created. The artist's brushes become extensions of their soul, translating imagination into reality with practised strokes. Even the everyday carry of a person – their phone, their notebook, their lucky pen – forms a personal toolkit curated through experience and intention.

Weapons -

No doubt, the world is a terrifying place full of things that want to eat and kill you. But weapons aren't just about dealing death – they're about power, protection, and preparedness. The martial artist's disciplined mind becomes their greatest weapon. The debater arms themselves with sharp logic and quick wit. The photographer's camera captures truth with the precision of any blade. In a world of predators and prey, we all develop our defences, whether they're physical implements or intellectual arsenals.
These extensions of self – our symbols, tools, and weapons – aren't mere possessions. They're the physical manifestations of our character, the bridge between who we are inside and how we interact with the world outside our "cocoon of flesh." They tell our story without words, and in using them, we write new chapters every day.

Jan. 8, 2025, 6:16 a.m.