I have something people want.

Authenticity.

Terrifying for many, desired by the same.

How do you feel when you see someone sincerely comfortable in their own skin? What does that experience look like? You may not know, there seem to be so few.

In nearly any situation involving another human heart, I’m excited for the interaction. I’m excited for the opportunity to make someone feel seen and heard, to know they matter. To demonstrate God’s love, especially to the quiet ones who don’t realize they have something meaningful to say. I want to give people permission to be themselves as I demonstrate me being me.

It makes sense. I’m the light of the world. Christ lives inside me, IS me. It’s not a stretch to conclude intentional reflection of God’s heart will shine brighter than the rest.

Being your true self is a choice, and unfortunately it won’t always be well received by people around you. Envy is ugly. It’s: “I admire who you are and I hate you for it.” Shine anyway. Whether they know it or not, they need your light just as much as you do, and their venom is mis-directed. Forgive them. They know not what they do.

A cautionary side note: Please don’t think, “what, I was just being honest!” is authenticity. It’s genuinely cruel to be “honest” without being truthful with extreme care and love.

Love well. If others think that’s weird….stay weird. <3