To understand oneself as both a human being and unique individual is to recognize oneself as no more and no less than a child of nature connected with others through the bounds of the prevailing social norms of the overarching society in which one resides. One must discover the true self deep within one and in an intimate relationship with another, but we can only operate effectively in interaction with others within a society's defined rules of interaction. Life is a constant balancing act between being true to oneself and both recognizing and following the protocols of social behavior.
