Authenticity is paramount in relationships, whether professional, romantic, familial, or platonic. Through various experiences, we may feel pressured to change. In these moments, we must learn the importance of remaining true to ourselves. Self-appreciation forges reciprocal respect, allowing us to accept people as they are without trying to mold them into someone they are not. Equally, it is not our responsibility to attempt to change anyone. We must take great pride in our identity and be fully aware of ourselves.

Being fully aware and rooted in ourselves gives us the confidence to speak freely, always coming from a place of sincerity and without attached preexisting, damaging emotions. Embracing others becomes natural because we understand that everyone has their own unique experiences and challenges, and they do not want to be placed in preconceived or prescriptive categories.

Most people desire to navigate their own path and be understood for who they truly are. Building genuine connections means getting to know each other authentically, without trying to analyze or alter one another. Embracing each other's true selves fosters meaningful and honest relationships.

When thinking of our ability to forge meaningful relationships, consider the following:

• Organic Self vs. Authentic Self: The organic self emphasizes the natural, unforced development of one's being or essence, while the authentic self focuses on self-awareness and the conscious alignment of actions and beliefs with one's true nature, evoking perception and introspection.

• Self-Neglect vs. Self-Abandonment: Self-neglect often shows up in observable behaviors such as poor hygiene, health neglect, and unsafe living conditions. Self-abandonment may not be as visibly apparent but deeply affects emotional health, identity, and self-worth.

• Performative Behaviors vs. Practical Behaviors: Performative actions are about creating a desired impression or gaining approval, often prioritizing appearance over substance. Practical actions are about achieving effective and useful outcomes, prioritizing substance and functionality over how things appear.

Present with sincerity and genuineness. One of the best ways to do this is by examining the things we hold sacred. We all have a sacred box filled with things we cherish and value the most. These values influence our everyday decisions. Examine your values and uncover yourself.

Love Is A Parable- an initiative and movement that later became an organization within itself. Love is A Parable is a DBA and subsidiary of Altar and Dwelling Place, Inc. We are a charitable and educational 501c3 organization, that provides character, social, and leadership development to those who have an aspiration toward unity, love, and kindness through a reflective thinking approach and sacred-box theory that involves value-based education.

J. Dwayne Garnett, BSRT, MHA, QP
Chief Executive Officer
Love Is A Parable
Available for Empowerment Speaking Engagements, Consultations, Uncovering Sessions, and Instruction.
Find out more about J by clicking HERE!