The Real You
I was struck
this weekend while hanging out with several dozen high school choir students that
the youth of America have really, fully embraced the idea of owning and just
being who they are. I observed that they seem to have a sense of self that I
would have given anything for in high school. Much of the stereotypical “teen angst” that
older generations have always assumed seems to have transitioned into a license
for each person to genuinely seek out who they are in the world and various
social orders and to just go with it. At forty years old, I’m still not sure if
I know who I am in the world. I know that I am still developing and growing. I
am moving toward what I feel is my purpose, but also continually seeking to
learn more about that purpose.
As I am working
to help people in my job, I have to speak with authority that attaining formal education
is valuable and a key part of enhanced self-discovery. I believe this, but I also think it is only a
part of the process. I would suggest that a key part of knowing more about
oneself lies in embracing the beauty and import of where you are at this very
moment. It’s quite a paradox to always be looking for your role in the next
thing while simultaneously being present where you are right now. But, both are
vital for success. Consider this quote by Seth Goldman, a commencement speaker
for the American University in 2010, "If you believe in what you're
saying, if you believe in what you're doing, you'll be more effective, more
passionate and more authentic in everything you do."
In many
ways, doing this job, we’ve got it easy because we do believe what we are
saying and doing. We know who we are and why we are here at this moment. And,
we continue to move toward finding and accepting who we are going to be and
what our purpose will be in the next moment and beyond. So, our message will be readily accepted because
it’s real.
