By Sister Jeannine Marie, O.C.D.
To be or not to be – that really is the question.
Authenticity – to be true to oneself. In our broken world, there is such confusion surrounding identity. It has become an all-encompassing “catchword”. Truths of nature and grace seem to spiral further and further from the center and meaning of all life. Our Lord reminds us “I am the Potter; you are the clay.” We were created. We had no vote in the matter. We were not even asked. It was the Potter who chose the lump of clay and created from nothing, a wonderous miracle. A creature totally unique, unrepeatable, and beautiful to behold. “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made marvelous are Your works…” (Psalm 139:14).
This same Creator made the gentle intricate violet, the strength and power in the oak tree, the raging foam of the ocean, and the gentle breeze of the dawn. Yet, they can never compare with you in all their grandeur and simplicity. This is the truth of our identity. We are made in the image and likeness of God. The angels truly are in awe of the wonder of the human person. Do we stop and ponder this wonder? To be authentic – to be true to ourselves- means to see, appreciate, and live this unfathomable truth.
People can always sense the good, the true, the beautiful, the false, and the counterfeit. Thus, living with authenticity is like trumpeting the glory and goodness of God. It will set us free. We no longer need to wear that mask, or hide, or pretend. Each one of us is inimitable – copyright guaranteed. So, William Shakespeare may have been on to something. Let’s promise ourselves to take time each day to ponder the mystery. We must first understand this wonderful mystery – myself – to be able to share it with others. Being true to yourself is praising God. So, be who you are supposed to be and there will no room for questions.
