Are You For Real?

There are a lot of things that a lot of people don't want to talk about, or even hear/read about. I'm no genius on the complex workings of the human brain, but I think it has something to do with the fact that no one wants to rock the boat. No one wants to take a stand and discuss the deeper topics. Why do people react that way to certain things? Why do you or I react that way? 

Do you ever stop and think about the root of it all? Do you think that maybe, just maybe, you're afraid? Now before you get defensive, stop and really think about it for a minute. Why else do we avoid certain topics at all cost? Why else do we shy away and try to change the subject, directing the conversation in a more comfortable direction? It's because you and I are afraid of standing up for what we believe and what we think is right. 

Okay, so that's it. That's what it is. We're afraid. But, then you might think, why are we afraid? What are we so scared of? Why is sharing our beliefs and opinions so scary? You know what? I think you already know the answer. You already know it, you just don't want to face it. The answer is this: you're worried about what other people will think of you! *Gasp* Yes, I said it! But it's true, isn't it? Everyone is so worried about what everyone else thinks of them that no one wants to truly be who they are. We all spend so much time trying to "fit in" that we don't even know ourselves anymore. And that's a real tragedy. 

 When you're in a group with your friends and a controversial topic comes up, what do you say when someone asks for your view on the subject? You freak out inside and start sweating and you get nervous and instead of stating how you really feel, you just go along with everyone else and agree, even though you don't. Am I right? Of course, there are those few people who are bold and honest with others about where they stand. And maybe that's you. If so, that's great! Good for you. But for the vast majority, we're worried that people won't like us anymore and won't want to be our friends if we don't agree with them and try to be exactly the way they are.

Now you might be thinking, 'Alright, so we've gotten to the bottom of things. Great. So now what?' Well, my friend, that is an excellent question! The hard truth is, if the people you call your friends genuinely care about you and like you for who you are as an individual, they will like you just as much when you stop trying to be like them and embrace your true self. And the thing is, if they don't, then you are much better off without them. You weren't meant to be a cheap copy of someone else. You were meant to be an original. Aren't originals worth way more than a replica? This isn't a masquerade! This is YOUR life. If you like something, wear it. If you have a certain view on a tough topic, share it! Find out what you love and do it! You've only got one shot at life, don't waste it by just being another face in the crowd. Be who you are, and be proud of it.

Courage to you, and I, as we sally forth!