WEDNESDAY THOUGHTS: AUTHENTICITY

One can ride on the coattails of others until the fabric is frayed and worn, yet be totally unaware that one’s presence is, and has always been merely tolerated. 

One can break his or her neck, fabricating positive relationship narratives for the unsuspecting public, while never being as beloved, celebrated, aligned, special, or respected, as one hopes to be. 

It’s one thing to genuinely be in the number, circle, or clique. It’s another, to know the true reason why one’s presence is tolerated, and soberly acknowledge what role one actually plays in the lives of others. 

One cannot afford to make assumptions, or have hopeful delusions. It’s a shame to think and boast oneself as “family”, a close friend, or confidant, when, in reality, one is merely one of many hangers-on, wannabes, fans, dispensable flunkies, and desperate competitors for the title of “Greatest In The Kingdom”.

One can drop, and use the names of others, until one’s throat is parched, but never win the hearts or achieve the statuses of others, experience the respect they enjoy, nor possess their privilege. 

One can try to feather one’s own cap by plucking, stealing from, and collecting the fallen feathers of a well-known, celebrated bird, but one will never, ever BE that bird. 

Attempts to be recognized and seen, by manufacturing relationships, or usurping the reputations and contributions of others, will always stink of impure motives. 

Resentment always cancels out honor. Envy cancels out praise. Discernment differentiates genuine gestures, from grossly opportunistic ones. 

Never expect secure people to lend themselves to, be fooled by, nor validate performative acts. You’ll find these wise individuals engaged in more pressing pursuits, that deserve their presence, expertise, and attention—and they need not broadcast, nor brag of them.

Inauthenticity must boast itself, demand validation, and make an entrance. It doesn’t like being ignored, especially when its relentless schemes have failed. Reality doesn’t need an invitation from imitators, nor waste its time in ridiculous competition with them. Excellence and authenticity are always welcome.

Though one may try and try, and plot and plan, no individual can kill or commandeer the spirit and soul of that which he did not birth and cultivate, nor claim ownership of what he did not create.