Be Yourself

Most of us are familiar with the idea of "being ourselves", being real. People who present their true selves to the world don't hide behind a mask to keep safe from how they might be perceived. They don't present a false self in order to be more perfect, more powerful or more independent. They show themselves as the truly are, the good parts and the parts that most of us would rather hide, sharing themselves fully with those of us who are lucky enough to know them.

This is not an easy thing to do as we live in a society that often shows us images of physical and material perfection. As a result, we all want to look younger, thinner, wealthier or more successful. We are rewarded externally when we succeed at this masquerade, but internally we suffer. When we feel that who we truly are is not enough and that we need to be bigger, better or more exciting, we send a message to ourselves that we are not good enough. Those who present their true selves to the world acknowledge their imperfections. After all, they are what makes us who we are as an individual.

People like this inspire us to let go of our own defenses and relax in the truth of who we really are...God's children. In their presence, we can feel safe enough to take off our own masks and experience the freedom of not hiding behind a barrier. We must work hard to go through life without a mask so that we may share the beauty of our real selves with others. Despite what the world would say, there is beauty in us all. Be willing to share yourself with others and then do not be surprised when others share with you.