I don't have a poem. I don't have even have a story to give today. I don't have any free flowing words this time that would pull at your heart. I just have a simple thought: one that has been on my mind the last few days.  

Authenticity. 

One thing I have come to realize is that people appreciate authenticity. I do. Especially in a world where this seems to be lacking. Authenticity is refreshing in a society that seems to be thirsty for it. In particular, people search for authenticity in other people. No one likes fakes. Yet, we likely at some point have all been guilty of portraying something we are not. 

There are things I do that wish I wouldn't. There are things I don't do that I wish I did. Life is a constant rotation of introspection, retrospection, and extrospection: Looking inward, looking back, and looking out at others. But while I rotate through my life, looking back at decisions I have made, comparing it with that around me, and considering my next choice, I aim for authenticity. 

I want to be real to those around me and to myself. I hope to be the same Whitney to one person as I am to an other. Being genuine produces a thread of trust that others can depend on. I may not always make the best decision, but I hope I at least am always honest and real with others and with myself. 

I have wondered lately how much the number of misunderstandings between people would come to a minimum if we all stuck to being authentic first. 

If whatever we said about someone, we would be willing to say also to their face. Being honest and authentic with ourselves and with others can produce quality relationships that build each other up instead of tearing each other down. 

Authenticity may bring confrontation, but in the end, it will bring resolve. I would much rather have honesty and authenticity than something misleading and fake. 

My goal everyday is to remind myself in every interaction and in every decision I make, to be real, honest, genuine, and authentic to myself and to others. 

Be real. It's the best you that you can be.