"Those who matter don't care and those who care don't matter." I've heard this quote hundreds of times, but I never took it to heart. To me, it was a notion or some far off theory. It was something brave people said. 

Then I was confronted with another "notion/theory"; "Life is too short not to be our most authentic selves." For so many public and private reasons, this rang true for me. 

We are afraid to let people in, because of a fear of rejection. We so desperately desire to be loved. It is one of our greatest faults, because in this attempt some of us mask identity, emotion and personal challenges. We construct walls, place lids on the fear of exposure and hope our battles will quiet themselves. 

Living a life in the shadows and constantly looking over your shoulder is no way to live. Man's order is a social one and when we keep our true selves hidden, we live in constant fear of being found out. This plays right into our fear of rejection and further complicates matters. 

There is a solution to this conundrum. It is easier said and written than done. If we are our most authentic selves, the burden is lifted. To let others in, is a courageous act. This act of bravery will manifest in a physical, emotional and spiritual change. Most of which occurs the moment you begin down the path of honesty. 

This is a process. It is a task in which I am quite familiar. I envy those who can just rip the Band-Aid off, but I am in a comfortable place in my life. I am becoming more comfortable with my most authentic self. Those who will add value to my life are in the know. That's enough for me. 

Thanks for entering my world, 

-Nathan