The speed by which identities and beliefs arise can be startling.  Some people look at a person or group of people, and within moments and with a great deal of certainty, can have a complete set of beliefs about these individuals.  The accuracy of these identities and beliefs is seldom called into question.  They simply exist as if they are always real and correct.  Likewise, an individual, without question, may also lead with his or her chosen identities, trusting in the expected beliefs associated with this identity.     

Some of these identities are, of course, physical, while others are simply created by mental projections.   Regardless of what underlies the identity, and its accompanying belief, it is important to understand where and how these beliefs and identities arise.

Think about the identities and beliefs you hold about yourself. From where did these beliefs and identities arise? From within you? From somewhere else?

Think about the identities and beliefs you hold about a person or a group of people.  From where did these beliefs and identities arise?

Do our beliefs and identities about self and others simply exist or are they the result of our creations?