Being Authentic

I LOVE the word AUTHENTIC…..to me, it sounds solid and truthful…and the dictionary shares a number of meanings,  such as:

“Not false or copied, genuine, real, original, lack of misrepresentation.”

I love the concept because it takes the guesswork out of who you should be at any given point in time.  You just have to be you.  You don’t need to compare you with anyone else, you don’t need to compete with anyone else…..you just need to be you.  You ARE an original, NOT a copy.  You were made in God’s image. You are genuine in your own right, you are one of a kind, you are unique, there is no other like you. God broke the mold after he made you.

Spend some quiet time contemplating you and WHO created you.  And remember — God does not make mistakes. As you go thru your day, pay attention to your thoughts, your mannerisms, your behavior, your words, and your actions.  Do they represent the TRUE YOU, or do they represent who YOU think others want to see in you?  Be honest!

Your actions demonstrate how authentic you are.  For example, respond to the questions below.

1. Are you genuine to everyone you meet, regardless of their status in life?
2. Are you reliable?
3. Do you have a heart for service?
4. Are you more of a giver rather than a taker?
5. Do you do the right thing even when no one is looking?

Today, do something for someone without any expectations…From your heart, just DO it.

How do others perceive you?  Would they consider you authentic?  Do they sense your authenticity when you’re speaking with them?  Imagine how a child, a loved one, a colleague, a family member, or even a stranger might answer.  Build your courage and ask someone if they consider you to be authentic.

Your authenticity revolves around using the gifts God sent you here with, no matter what those gifts are.  You were chosen to use them better than anyone else. You were chosen to use your gifts to make this planet better for everyone on it.  Living in your gifts allows you to be true to your personal journey. It is why you are here…it is why you don’t have time to waste trying to imitate someone else because you have your gifts, not theirs. This is your journey – your assignment and you must stay on your path.