Hawzah News Agency- Hojatoleslam Mohammad Tabarsi, deputy for Islamic propagation at the Hamadan Seminary, addressed a gathering of teenage girls at the Abdullah Shrine (PBUH) in Hamadan during a session titled "A Girl in the Fog."
He emphasized the necessity of recognizing one's true identity, noting that many individuals develop feelings of inferiority and inadequacy due to labels imposed by family, society, friends and virtual space, ultimately drifting away from understanding their authentic selves.
Pointing to the impact of childhood labels on personality formation, he said: "Sometimes a simple remark made during childhood about a person's abilities or limitations remains embedded in the subconscious mind and gradually transforms into a belief that shapes the course of their life."
Hojatoleslam Tabarsi stressed that individuals should not define themselves through the judgments of others, adding: "Some people spend years trying to become what others expect them to be. Yet wealth, fame, encouragement and even social standing cannot bring peace or genuine identity if they distance a person from their true self."
He continued: "We must be vigilant that virtual space and its imposed models do not alter our identity. A person may change their appearance and lifestyle to attract attention, but ultimately ends up drifting away from the truth of their own being."
The cleric identified the loss of human identity as one of the central afflictions of contemporary society, stating: "Many social conflicts and harms emerge when individuals forget their true nature and human standing, pursuing instead an identity constructed by others."
Highlighting the critical importance of childhood in character formation, Hojatoleslam Tabarsi noted that both positive and negative labels can alter the trajectory of a person's life. He urged families and educators to exercise care in how they speak to children and adolescents, preventing the development of inferiority complexes or feelings of inadequacy.
"Breaking free from these chains is not easy," he cautioned. "A person must strive to rebuild their identity and shed attachments that have diverted them from the genuine path of life."
Discussing the concept of the "true self," the cleric said: "Self-esteem takes shape when a person recognizes their authentic self and stops playing roles for the approval of others. It is through reaching one's true self that one can draw closer to the essence of humanity."
He added that one of the most effective ways to strengthen human identity is to change one's sources of inspiration. Instead of deriving one's personality from virtual space, peers or unstable figures, individuals should look to the example of the Holy Prophet and his household.
Referencing the character of Imam Hassan al-Mujtaba (peace be upon him), Hojatoleslam Tabarsi underscored the importance of kindness, forgiveness and attention to others, saying: "Humanity finds meaning in serving others, supporting the needy and caring for the creatures and people around us."
He also pointed to the esteemed position of Imam Reza (peace be upon him) in Shia culture, noting that the Imam is renowned among the infallible Imams for his compassion. He urged believers to maintain their connection with the Prophet's household during times of hardship and tribulation.
The cleric concluded by cautioning against abandoning devotion and connection to the Ahl al-Bayt once the month of Safar ends, emphasizing that individuals should seek refuge in the Prophet's household throughout all stages of life.
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