I have been thinking a lot lately about how we are so quick to put on a mask around others, as if we are terrified that they may see who we really are. We worry about how we will be viewed by those around us so we hide away showing only the parts of us we think will be accepted. It's sad really. We try so hard to fit into this little box that our culture tells us is right, pushing ourselves to the point where for some of us we forget who we really are.
When you live so much of your life hidden behind a mask you start to forget or in some cases abandon the very things that make you who you are. It's a sad reality that our culture/world try's to force us into a mold, making us look and act a certain way. It is almost as if we are puppets being pulled this way and that. Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them".
If we are the workmanship of Christ created to do good works, then the question must be asked - why do we hide ourselves away? Why do we put on a mask when we go out into the world? After wearing a mask for so long it often feels like you will never be able to leave the mask in your past and go throughout life as the real you. the you created by God and for God. The you that has been hidden for far to long. The you that has so much to give and so much to offer the world.
In my own life I have experienced this and I understand how difficult it can be to open up and let others in. I know struggle of wanting so badly for those around you to know the real you, the you that you're terrified will be rejected. I want to encourage you, it really is as simple as taking one step at a time. You can do it, just remember to breathe through the journey. Once you take that first step out each step you take after begins to get a little easier.
Speaking from my own experience, I know it will be hard at first, but I promise you it is worth it in the end. There is a whole world just waiting for you beyond that mask! It may be scary at times, and you may want to give up, but you know what? Don't give up! Push through those moments you want to give up, because there are so many people in your corner cheering you on. Even when we don't see them, we are surrounded by those who love and support us and want the best for us.
"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Your challenge this week is to take a step out from behind the mask you find yourself hiding behind, no matter how small the step may be. It doesn't have to be a big step, it can be as big or as small as you want. Just Take That First Step!
Remember you have a God-given Uniqueness!
~ Alianna C.