Embrace Your True Nature

We are all born with unique qualities from hair color, to skin color, to likes, dislikes, talents, abilities, etc., so it seems natural that we would be naturally drawn to certain areas in life that peak our interest and suit us on a personal level. With this in mind, wouldn't it be wise of us to nurture and embrace each other for these unique set of qualities instead of trying to fit us all into one shape or size?

Abraham Maslow, an American Psychologist, spoke of encouraging our inner nature and expressed that it's an essential core of a person, and if allowed to guide our lives, will help us grow "healthy, fruitful, and happy". If denied or suppressed, the lack of expression of this inner nature, he argued, will lead to sickness. This sounds like a pretty big deal and something we should probably start paying attention to, don't you think?

When we're born we don't know the difference between who we are, and who we think we're suppose to be. Martha Beck argues it's culture and society that begins to change our thinking of who we are even before we have a chance to think about it, or figure it out on our own. This makes sense when we are constantly bombarded with what culture, society, social media, and everyone else is telling us to do and who to be. Wouldn't it be great if we could block out the noise of others and get connected to the being within who knows exactly who we really are, what we really desire, and the purpose for which we were made. And once we figure it out, wouldn't it be amazing if we could be brave enough to embrace it.

I remember being at girls camp as a teenager one year where they put up a rock wall and wanted us all to take turns climbing it. I don't know about everyone else, but I didn't want to climb it, so as everyone took their turn (whether they wanted to or not) I dug in my heels saying politely that I didn't want to and was happy just watching everyone else. Even though they said it was fine if I didn't climb it, the pressure began to build as, one by one, everyone else gave in. I remember thinking... thank goodness this isn't drugs I was trying to say no to, sheesh. Even then I stayed strong in my choice not to climb it until I was the only one left. That's until they ALL insisted I climb it because apparently it would "Change my life!" So I finally gave in, not because I thought my life was about to change, but because I was pretty sure we weren't leaving until I climbed it and heaven forbid I keep everyone from their next activity of paddle boats. All I can say is, I was right, it wasn't fun, it didn't change my life, and til this day I'm disappointed that I didn't stay in my integrity knowing myself well enough to know that I did not want to climb it. I think we all know deep down inside what's right for us, and what isn't. I also know it's very hard sometimes to stand our ground and be who we know ourselves to be when there's so much pressure to be who everyone else wants us to be. However, hard yes, impossible... no...

Going against culture and society means some people may not like us, some may abandon us, and there may be a constant temptation to just give in because it's easier. However, by being true to ourselves, we'll gain respect from many, we'll have people who admire our determination and individuality, and others will find courage to follow in our footsteps. Furthermore, and even more important, we will find purpose and joy as our glorious inner nature flows out into every aspect of our lives. As Maslow said all those years ago, we will become, "healthy, fruitful, and happy". I also believe we won't be alone because we will be guided to those who are, like us, embracing their true nature, which too, will flow out into the world and make it a better place for everyone...

Subscribe

More Info