Authentic

To be authentic is staying true to yourself and your message without being tempted by rewards or recognition, and without any fear of punishment. To be authentic is to be un-influenced by the consequences of what you say or do.

There is a difference between being authentic, and being rude or angry.

Authenticity is a rare gift available to the very few. As a community, we should cherish the presence of authentic individuals amongst us, and protect them from negative consequences when they speak up. Consider yourself lucky if your town has one authentic individual, and consider yourself very lucky if you know one.

The history of mankind is littered with bodies of great men who were authentic. They were persecuted by the authorities of their times, and simultaneously shunned by the very people and society they served. The 10 Sikh Gurus, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, are prominent authentic individuals.

Authenticity in public life means writing and talking truthfully and lovingly with sensitivity, finesse, and class. You can be politically correct if you prefer, but don't dilute the message by making it softer, gentler, and palatable.

The Pen is mightier than the sword only if the pen is sharp and pierces the soul. Don't blunt your pen.

Understandably, authenticity of big ideas is rarely welcomed by society because people's fake knowledge is questioned, and long-held beliefs destroyed. The fear of consequences that follow is the reason most people cannot be authentic.

The key to being Authentic is to do it in a loving way, for it is love of life, love of knowledge, and love for the community which drives and inspires Authenticity.

Wish us luck. We will need it!

"People will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing their own souls" - Carl Jung.


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