The moment of consciousness

One of the most exciting experiences I encountered while writing ‘The Boy I Was – flawed memories of childhood’ was being able to identify when I became a conscious being.

Even though we all feel that we understand what consciousness is, it is not an easy thing to describe. Scientists grapple with various definitions and there is no overriding definition which satisfies everyone.

Though it is not perfect, I have opted for the idea that, to be conscious, you must not only be aware, but also be aware that you are aware.

To be aware, one must have memories. To speak, a child must be able to remember what they learn. The child must also be able to synthesise stories and interact with others.

Picture a young child being enchanted by a picture book story being read to them. "…and the big bad wolf said…"

Each lion in a pack is aware, has memories, and can collaborate with the others in the pack to bring down their prey.

However, none of those lions is conscious, is aware that they are aware, and able to consider what they are doing, and look at other ways to hunt prey, involving planning and synthesis.

To think: "I did this, but what if I did this instead?"

When I was four, I devised a five-wheel vehicle. I comprised my tricycle with a push lawn mower tied to the rear. I used to ride it around the block pretending I was the paperboy.

The invention of the vehicle was the act of a conscious person. The few earlier memories that I retain show no indicators of consciousness, but this memory certainly does.

What about you?

Are you able to search your memories and find that moment in your growth when you must have been conscious? If so, I would love to hear your story. Leave a comment on this blog!