One definition is: true to one's own personality, spirit, or character
It's what I try to be on my blog. On my Facebook. In my life.
It's hard to really convey who someone really is in a two dimensional format. It's hard for you - the reader- to see my personality, spirit or character simply through some ill formed words on a page. To understand the essence of my being through some pictures posted or some perspective about child raising.
Authenticity.
It's a value I want to instill in my children. I desperately desire that they be true to who God made them to be - their spirit be truly their own.
Raising kids from tough places begins to strip away the trappings of things that get in the way of our being authentic. It's easier to maintain a facade of "everything is great" even when it's not when you are not beaten and bruised - both physically and emotionally - by the 6 year old living in your heart and home who appears to hate you. Looking "perfect" on the outside comes effortlessly when your 10 year old can dress herself because she is not overwhelmed at the thought of enduring another day at school.
I have been stripped of a lot of pretense the last few years through my kids, so it was doubly hurtful when someone accused me of being insincere - in of all things - my faith. Ouch.
I am not the perfect Christian. In fact, the more I know Jesus and strive to follow His way, the more acutely aware I become of just how messed up I am. Every word uttered and thought I think that is displeasing to Him is a daily (ok - hourly - no, wait - minute) reminder that I am far from perfect.
But I pray that through this I am authentic. That who I appear to be on "paper" somewhat mirrors what is in my heart. I take to heart a criticism that may have a nugget (or boulder) of truth in it and hope I can grow through it.
Authenticity. Apparently like all growth - is a journey, not a destination.
Raising kids from tough places begins to strip away the trappings of things that get in the way of our being authentic. It's easier to maintain a facade of "everything is great" even when it's not when you are not beaten and bruised - both physically and emotionally - by the 6 year old living in your heart and home who appears to hate you. Looking "perfect" on the outside comes effortlessly when your 10 year old can dress herself because she is not overwhelmed at the thought of enduring another day at school.
I have been stripped of a lot of pretense the last few years through my kids, so it was doubly hurtful when someone accused me of being insincere - in of all things - my faith. Ouch.
I am not the perfect Christian. In fact, the more I know Jesus and strive to follow His way, the more acutely aware I become of just how messed up I am. Every word uttered and thought I think that is displeasing to Him is a daily (ok - hourly - no, wait - minute) reminder that I am far from perfect.
But I pray that through this I am authentic. That who I appear to be on "paper" somewhat mirrors what is in my heart. I take to heart a criticism that may have a nugget (or boulder) of truth in it and hope I can grow through it.
Authenticity. Apparently like all growth - is a journey, not a destination.
Ignore them. There are a lot of of people out there that have bad theology and try to twist the Bible to say things it does not say. People will fail you all the time. Keep your eyes on Jesus...he will never fail you.
ReplyDeleteYou really put yourself out there. Whoever said that you were insincere has a problem of there own. That was just mean spirited and uncalled for. Every time you post some of the "messy things" it gives more of a window to your soul than all of the good things. Because that's where we really meet Jesus, at the hard things. That is when we know we can't do it without Him and have to trust Him. I am sure that you have had more than your share of those times. . When you share those things if gives hope and inspiration to us all. Remember He doesn't call you or expect you to be perfect and he sure doesn't want you to beat yourself up. You are His child and your girls are His girls and He loves you all very much. Rest in His love and don't let that person's remark take His peace awaynfrom you.
ReplyDeleteWith love,
Prissy
Thanks Prissy. I debated a long time about this, but I think that this a very real part of trying to live your faith out loud in a messy way - and if one person gets a little comfort from knowing that others struggle, that's what the body is all about!
Delete