Why Not Be Yourself?
In a world where conformity often seems like the norm, it is essential to remember one thing: you are unique, and that’s what makes you valuable. You don’t need to be anyone else because everyone else is already taken. Why not be yourself? The world needs the real you – the person that God uniquely created you to be.
Have you ever considered that if God wanted you to be somebody else you wouldn’t be here? So why waste time trying to fit into someone else’s mold? Instead, let’s challenge the cultural standards of beauty and embrace the truth that God says you are beautiful. In Psalms 139:13-14, it’s written that you were wonderfully and fearfully made. Why should you spend your time trying to walk, talk, and act like someone else? There is no reason to pretend to like what others like just to feel accepted by them. So, the next time you look in the mirror, see yourself through God’s eyes. You are precious and beautiful in His sight.
Yet, too often, people struggle with self-doubt and self-criticism. They focus on their faults and weaknesses, constantly berating themselves for not measuring up to some arbitrary standard. Here’s the truth: you’re a work in progress. God is still working on you, changing you from glory to glory. Instead of dwelling on your flaws, embrace the journey, and the progress you have made, and trust God’s timing.
Focus on Your Goals – Not Negative Things Others Say About You
Some supermodels, actresses, and actors were ridiculed before they became famous. Their detractors found a reason to make fun of them – too skinny, too short, or too weird, but that did not prevent them from achieving success in their chosen field. Kids who are bullied and teased by others who call them nerds and other terms, intended to be derogatory, often go on to achieve great success in life. George Clooney was said to be overweight, near-sighted, and wore thick glasses as a kid. Dyslexia Daily states that at age 8 he was diagnosed with dyslexia and quoted him as saying, “I would go to one school and I was the idiot.” He developed into a handsome, successful adult. According to writer Isabelle Truman’s article in the October 16, 2020, newsletter of fashion magazine Elle, Gisele Bundchen was rejected by 42 modeling agencies before she finally got a breakthrough and was cast in an Alexander McQueen runway show in 1998. She also said that Cindy Crawford was rejected early in her career because of a mole on her face. It later became a copied beauty mark.
Accepting yourself doesn’t mean ignoring areas where you can improve. You may not be where you want to be or where God wants you to be. Understand that you’re not a finished product and that it’s okay. God is the potter, and you are the clay. He’s molding and shaping you into who He created you to be. Will you trust Him in the process?
What you consider as your weakness may be the very trait or quality God uses to achieve His purpose. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, the Apostle Paul wrote, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” He wrote this at a time in his life when he was vulnerable. He had been harshly criticized by some of the believers in the church who were dissatisfied with his leadership, and it had caused quarrels and divisions in the church.
The poem Desiderata encourages us to lead an authentic lifestyle, embrace God, let go of the past, look forward to the future, and be happy.
Desiderata: Words for Life by Max Ehrmann
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
Downloaded 6/7/2024 from: https://www.cse.cuhk.edu.hk/~cslui/desiderata.html
The Confidence and Satisfaction of Being Yourself
Start enjoying the glory that you’re in right now. Yes, you may have some weaknesses, but so does everyone else. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back from embracing who you are. God acknowledges you as His beloved son or daughter and is well pleased with you. Be at peace with yourself and others will see it too. Project confidence, contentment, and friendliness because that’s who you are – a beloved child of God. Do your part and start each morning by affirming that you are His and accepting that He approves of you. As you do, believe and declare that every chain holding you back will be broken. God will continue to mold you, and you will overcome every obstacle to become everything He created you to be. Be yourself and not an unhappy carbon copy of someone else. Embrace your authenticity, for that is where true beauty lies.