Authenticity has definitions that span a far and wide distance. Each person has a unique and individual sense about them and in order for them to succeed in authenticity, they have to venture off from the pack and explore out on their own. For some, this journey is easier than for others. It is an adventure, an opportunity, an excuse to soar into greatness. The other half sees it as nothing more than a stretch that they are, at times, unwilling to allow. Life, however, dictates things to us that we have little or no control over.
On this excursion I am on, I ponder much. I find myself asking me questions." Self," I might say, "Self, are you being real right now?" OR "Linette, the feelings you are experiencing seem a bit competitive, is that really living a life of authenticity?" As you can imagine answering these questions is painful at times, but how else do I grow without the challenge, even if it comes from myself. So, one of the questions posed lately, quite frequently actually, is when are you real enough to be big enough for it to be "her" turn. What do I mean???? I can hear you asking. Well, here is my thought process. I am on this planet for many reasons, as are you. One of the purposes for our existences is to be friends, counselors, safe places to fall and ears that hear. Do you see where this is going?
There have been times in my life when it is not about me. I am not referring to unhealthy, self defeating times. On the contrary, I speak of the moments when I have been fortunate enough to be used by heaven to be a friend's tangible connection of grace. Actually, I find extreme satisfaction in that place. It comes naturally for me and is very much part of who I am. I do, however, have times when my tank is so empty that it is hard work to be there for another. In retrospect, I am realizing that there are times when that is OK. Times of need are good places, especially when recognized and heeded as such. In those times, I too have amazing relationships in my life that are a comfort and bring input and clarity.....for them I am eternally grateful!!
There have also been periods of need in someone else that have taken precedence over my current happenings. I have had moments where someone important to me is hurting immensely or breaking down in who they are temporarily. I would venture a guess, that each of you have experienced the same thing in one way or another. A balance is so necessary in these situations, and this is again where I had an epiphany moment. When I am walking the path of real and knowing and liking who I am, being available to go to the ends of the earth with a person in need is natural and attainable. Actually, here is the depth of truth in it. When we are living authentic, healthy lives we are available for others and give out of who we are. There lies the ability to say you know what it's "her turn" and I am so happy with that! What better satisfaction in life can you have than being a part of a friend's lift off into greater amazing-ness and peace? Along the way you will very possibly find another piece of you and watch your greatness bloom into a new season.
'Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for her friends.' (Jesus)
On this excursion I am on, I ponder much. I find myself asking me questions." Self," I might say, "Self, are you being real right now?" OR "Linette, the feelings you are experiencing seem a bit competitive, is that really living a life of authenticity?" As you can imagine answering these questions is painful at times, but how else do I grow without the challenge, even if it comes from myself. So, one of the questions posed lately, quite frequently actually, is when are you real enough to be big enough for it to be "her" turn. What do I mean???? I can hear you asking. Well, here is my thought process. I am on this planet for many reasons, as are you. One of the purposes for our existences is to be friends, counselors, safe places to fall and ears that hear. Do you see where this is going?
There have been times in my life when it is not about me. I am not referring to unhealthy, self defeating times. On the contrary, I speak of the moments when I have been fortunate enough to be used by heaven to be a friend's tangible connection of grace. Actually, I find extreme satisfaction in that place. It comes naturally for me and is very much part of who I am. I do, however, have times when my tank is so empty that it is hard work to be there for another. In retrospect, I am realizing that there are times when that is OK. Times of need are good places, especially when recognized and heeded as such. In those times, I too have amazing relationships in my life that are a comfort and bring input and clarity.....for them I am eternally grateful!!
There have also been periods of need in someone else that have taken precedence over my current happenings. I have had moments where someone important to me is hurting immensely or breaking down in who they are temporarily. I would venture a guess, that each of you have experienced the same thing in one way or another. A balance is so necessary in these situations, and this is again where I had an epiphany moment. When I am walking the path of real and knowing and liking who I am, being available to go to the ends of the earth with a person in need is natural and attainable. Actually, here is the depth of truth in it. When we are living authentic, healthy lives we are available for others and give out of who we are. There lies the ability to say you know what it's "her turn" and I am so happy with that! What better satisfaction in life can you have than being a part of a friend's lift off into greater amazing-ness and peace? Along the way you will very possibly find another piece of you and watch your greatness bloom into a new season.
'Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for her friends.' (Jesus)
Beauty at its finest! Because I've been such a blog hog, I think I will leave it at that--Beautiful! I love reading everyone's posts and hearing the heart of these very dear and sincere subjects. Love you friend!!!
This post has encouraged me to be there for someone that may be struggling, instead of slipping away from them to avoid pain. I've labeled myself as the "fun friend", but it's time to dig a little deeper and explore what it means to be a friend in all seasons.
That's awesome Robin! Relating and really knowing someone is such a special journey into other "lands" and cultures at times. Everyone brings their own experiences, pain, joys, and flavor into relationships. I think digging is so what the Lord had in mind for treasured friends and loved ones because anything that is of worth to the Kingdom is worth finding! He truly hides our priceless life treasures so we can dig deeper and find them!!! I think you and I would make wonderful friends!!
Robin, so proud of you. I think one of the hardest things to do sometimes is to choose to go deeper when it is not a natural bent. I also believe it is immensely rewarding. Keep me posted!
Chrissy you are NOT a blog hog you are a dear and amazingly supportive friend....love you.