Be Authentic....

I've always been a bit of a rebel. I never took too kindly to authority and always questioned everything and every one. I am grateful for having parents who kept me in check with loving discipline and a stable upbringing.

I've also always had a deep sense of being different from the norm. Yet, instead of feeling isolated because of it, I've instead felt special and blessed. This is who I am and I embrace my being. I enjoy being different from everyone else. I enjoy not fitting into any sort of molds. I enjoy being the unique individual that I am.

You see, dear reader, there is a fine line between individuality and narcissism. As responsible and loving beings, we much recognize the gift of this individual spirit that lives within ourselves, and at the same time, not take this uniqueness too seriously as to be self righteous and egotistical.

We are the only ones that are the best as being who we are. No one can be a better you, than you. If this includes coloring outside the lines and being a non-conformist, then let it be so.

If this means sticking out from the rest of the crowd, then more power to you. If this means standing up for what you believe to be right and true, even though you may be in the minority, then go for it.

By being authentic, you are, in essence, just being the person you were meant to be, not the person you were told you should or must be.

There is a very freeing sense of self that comes with the peace of mind of knowing and accepting who you are and embracing it always.

The constant gloater and braggers......

When good fortune has been bestowed upon a loved one, no matter what your current situation, you should find it in yourself to be genuinely happy for them. That being said, I often run into those who feel a great need to be on a constant mission to gloat and brag so much and so often, it is as though they have a need to prove to those around them that they are better in a most degrading way. All this type of behavior accomplishes is to alienate those around them and cause major resentment. For me, these types are very easy to see through. They tend to be, in reality, very insecure people set on a constant course of self acceptance. They have no peace of mind, while being too self absorbed and clueless to the negative vibe they create around them.

So, I say, if you find that you must spend time with these creatures, my best advice is to not get caught up in their stories of wealth and good fortune. Do not take great notice in their new car, suit, home addition, or even the world cruise they are planning to take. Just sit back and observe, don't feed their needy ego. And when you are able to leave their "space", take a deep breath and be grateful that you would never behave in such a way, for you have great empathy for those around you. You have a peaceful mind.