BE YOUR DIFFERENCE

They said we should be ourselves. That we should not be afraid to be different. They asked us to be true to our own selves, our ideals, our dreams, our aspirations, our true and higher selves. We did. Then, they complained that we're trying to be noticed. That we're too strong, too weak, too loud, quiet, too smart, too dull, too nice, too nasty, too beautiful, too ugly, too bold, too shy, too tall, too short, too fair, too dark, too happy, too sad, too big, too small, too fast, too slow, too good, too bad. That we're just too different! But, no, we were not trying to be different. And we were not trying to be like anyone else. We were just trying to be ourselves.

The fear of being judged or socially rejected is what makes people hide their true selves, not step up to the plate but try to blend in. Blame no one. We are all guilty of this crime of being judgmental and less than tolerant of others who are different from us. Rather than lovingly correct their excesses albeit firmly and urgently. Rather than understand and empathize with their condition or plight, as it may well be. Rather than genuinely desiring to help. We lash out harshly, condemn, disgrace, embarrass, badmouth or put them down. Well, it's okay, if that is who we are. Perhaps, they too should understand that that is who we are. Here are two life lessons you should adhere to; they will always keep you on the right path.

Lesson 1: Be yourself AND develop yourself. Seek to be the best version of yourself. Don't take to heart the unfair or severe criticisms and don't be discouraged by your own shortfalls. See the vision of a greater you. Commit to continuous improvement. Commit to personal growth. Commitment to authenticity.

Lesson 2: Treat others the exact same way you want to be treated, even if they are different from you. Surely, that's a tall order for fallen humanity. The more reason we need God and His supernatural supply of grace, the Holy Spirit and the daily transformation into the image of Christ so we can truly be called the children of our Father in Heaven.

Blessings and peace!