Masks

In the English language, the word for person is derived from the Latin word persona – which translates as “mask’“. Masks are a universal part of our human experience. Used in ceremony and in practical purpose, the mask holds social & symbolic meaning. What does it mean to you? Religion, ritual, healing, play?

The Iroquois healing ritual masks invoke the spirits of the dream world with the belief their masks have life. Igbo tribal mask ceremonies connect to ancestors. Shamanic masks of the Chinese Shigong, Hopi, Zuni and Dogon are used in ritual dance. There are the Temne’s masks of wisdom & humility; the Ivory Coast Senoufo tranquility mask with its sleepy eyes and Grebo mask of the proud, unyielding warrior.

Masks of ancient drama and myth teach and entertain, from Greek and Roman amphitheater to India’s Mahabarata and the Noh plays of Japan. There is the ancient iron mask as torture; oxygen mask, life saving; gas mask, protection; and diving mask, clarity. Masks as disguise, to avoid recognition, be anonymous — in crime or carnival.

So much is written on how we hide behind masks. I (perhaps you as well) have told myself that I wear and have worn the “mask” of youth and broken doll, partner, guardian, the loved, the unloved and broken promise, warrior, monk, scholar, sinner, sailor, seeker, the lost, the found and the lost again. I have come to know any version of any mask…that seems to be worn, by me, or perhaps, by you. I know that I am more. I know that you are more.

Take the mask — hold it before your face in the mirror – and shine a light behind it….see it. See the light shine through. Through the openings in the eyes, the mouth…..it is luminous. You may believe you are only the masks you wear, they carry you through the day. Masks are man made. Our essence is spirit. When you wake up in the middle of the night, uncertain, but without pretense, wondering about yourself…do not remember the mask. Remember the light…that is who you are.

Toni Josephson

Watch magician and martial artist Jeff McBride’s mask videos:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqmFS4GRa-g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9zfqhnxS48&feature=related