An Authentic Life - a podcast by David K Payne

For a while on my blog page, I will be sharing my thoughts regarding the concept of living an authentic life. On the surface, most might argue that they are genuine in how they present themselves to others, but a more in-depth look most likely will reveal a different reality.

 

Philosophically the term authentic from an existentialist perspective relates to or represents an emotionally appropriate, significant, purposive, and responsible mode of human life.

 

Eugene Peterson in his translation of scripture relays Jesus’ thoughts on the matter in this way.

 “And don’t say anything you don’t mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, ‘I’ll pray for you,’ and never doing it, or saying, ‘God be with you,’ and not meaning it. You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true. Just say ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong. (Matthew 5:37 MSG)

 

Take some time think about your interactions with your family over the Holidays. How many times did you pretend in your responses to family members and friends only for gaining approval or making them accept you?  Though there is much to be said for diplomacy and courtesy in your responses and interaction with others, our goal must be to find our way to an authentic life respectfully. Allow yourself to meditate on this topic and ask God for direction finding your authentic life.

 

“We have to dare to be ourselves, however frightening or strange that self may prove to be.” 
― May Sarton

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