Everyone wants to be fully known, fully loved, and fully celebrated.
But when we take off our masks, some will wish that we put the mask back on. Over the years I have had people say to me that they don’t understand who I am. Yesterday, I got a text from my mom saying the same thing.
I don’t understand what that means. I would not dismiss a woman of Color, a senior citizen, or a person from another country because that isn’t my experience. I wouldn’t tell someone different from me I don’t understand who you are. And yet, I hear this sentiment on the regular.
People not understanding who we are is particularly true for people who express their gender different than the societal norms and expectations—but it can be true for anyone.
It is okay for you to be what others don’t understand.
It is okay for you to be you.
Society wants people who fit neatly in to boxes. When we don’t fit others expectations, that can be jarring for them. But don’t limit yourself for someone else.
Be you
Be your wonderful self.
Be your beautiful self.
Be the unique person who you were created to be.
When you are authentic to who you are, you shine.
Don’t let anyone take your shine away—shine on!
