Individuality is rampant today. Everyone is doing their "own thing". We push and prod our children to be unique and "different" from everyone else, yet in the end the cookie-cutter syndrome emerges. Why and what do we have to do to be truly who we are?
Parents without even knowing it live their dreams and goals through their children. Dad wanted to play soccer but had to get an after-school job. Mom always wanted to be a Martha Stewart yet finances made mealtime choices the cheapest for the dollar. Sister Sue wants to be different so that she can attract the "in" group and belong. Brother Bill really wants to play football but believes that if he protests enough about hating the game, the other guys will demand that he join the team and find out how much fun it can be. As you can see, we make ourselves different so that we can become the same.
If you truly want to be yourself - then by all means do so. Don't slouch, stand tall, and reach for the sky. You don't have to be deceptive because you want something - you want it, you would like to have it, or you dream of doing this particular thing. If you conceive of ways of getting around others to reach your "point of light" then you are wasting precious energy in getting to your goal. Instead, conserve your strength, ideas, and creativity by naming your goal, clearing up the rough edges, and then head out - that's right - open the door and start taking one step ahead of the other until you get there. Of course, making minor adjustments along the way is fine to a point. But the main desire or dream must be still recognized and worthy of your efforts.
The point here is that if you have the time and aptitude to trick others into what you want, then recycle that energy into making your dreams and hopes come true in a straight way - down the lighted path, and right to your door. Whatever it is you dream of doing, or being, then in all reality, as the saying goes, "Go for it." It might be something as small as remembering all the states and their capitol cities, or as monumental as running for public office. Just remember that if you can think it you can do it. If your mind can envision it - then your mind and body can reach for it and bring it about. Of course not all of us can be President of the U.S. all at the same time - but if that is what 50 million of us want, then there will be 50 million policy makers and political workers that will have vision, integrity, and go power. You see, while being realistic in there being only one President, there are multi-facets that can be reached to bring about the desired effect. You can work in world affair categories, or even write about them. In any aspect, you are your goal and your goal is you. You are not circumventing a lot of people to be who you are because you know who you are - and who but you would know you the best? Believe in you, live who you are, and know that each day is one of being a better you then the day before - and remembering that even perfection needs to be dusted and trimmed every now and then.
You can be your own person, make your mark on the world of today, and be tomorrow's superstar - all in just one lifetime. Even if the stage you are appearing on is just made for one - don't let you get lost in the details. Carnegie Hall is just a thought away, and Broadway and Hollywood do not have to be in New York or California. They can be in Scranton or Green Bay. Make your world where you are because you are the leading act. Without you the show cannot go on, and the applause, well, whether it be as gentle as a summer breeze or as explosive as a thunderstorm, it is you that is important. Life is a stage and the show must go on. Make it the best show on earth and in the end, the reviews will be all you had hoped for. Something to think about.
©Arleen M. Kaptur
July, 2007
Arleen M. Kaptur has written many books and articles on everyday living and finding peace and joy in all we do.