I am struck by how precious and dear the people from my youngest years are to me. I think it’s because we all truly know each other for who we are. When we were young, we showed our true selves. 

As we grow up, it doesn’t take long for us to clam up inside our safe shell. We are uncertain that we fit all the expectations set before us or come close to an ideal image that is mostly created in our minds. So in our growing up years, there are common responses to our shaky confidence.  

Some respond with facades to protect themselves. In a yearning to belong, they become what they’re supposed to be. Dare I say, they become superficial as they try to be the most popular or just fit in. They misplace their true self for a time.    

Then there are those who respond with shyness and distrust the games and fake world around them. They see things for what they are and pull themselves inside. They bury their true selves and are not willing to show the world anything. 

And some, the lucky few, I think they exist, have the courage to be themselves early in life. They find true friends. They flourish while being kind to those around them. 

Until we feel secure in our own skin and in the world around us, that is when we put our toe in the water and slowly show our true selves. It takes effort and time to get reacquainted. Spending time alone to pray and meditate will help us discover who we are. We will be enlightened by our gifts and how much we have to offer the world. 

At a recent high school graduation ceremony, the valedictorian commented  that she wished she would’ve opened up sooner. She realized she could’ve had so much more fun and more friends. My takeaway is be kind to yourself, knowing it can be part of growing up. Many lessons are learned in the transition from youth to adulthood, and much work is done internally. 

Building your true self and life is a process worth committing to. Part 2 on this topic coming in the next post.

Image by Марина Вельможко from Pixabay