Being Authentic 

In the Hispanic culture, there's an emphasis on being authentic and being honest about one's experiences, and not conforming to expectations that are external. 

Russian Vedism, also Russian Authenticity, encourages us to achieve a state of authenticity, being in harmony with ourselves. 

For 22 years, I lived a lie. I wasn't true to myself. I didn't know who I was. Deep down, I was portraying to the outer world a person who didn't exist. Alcoholics Anonymous talks about how Alcoholics live a double life. That was me. I always wore a facade. I was always what other people wanted me to be. 

When I started being true to myself, I was finally able to be free. I experienced a sense of freedom that I never knew existed. True, I lost friends, I was accused, I was cursed. I lost many relationships. But I no longer feel as if I have to conform to other people's expectations. When I conform to authenticity of self, when I am me, I am free and whole. 

Action for the day: Don't force yourself to live to other people's standards.  Have your own standards. Find your authentic self. Be who you need to be. Do not lose sight of who you are. There's no need or requirement to live a double life. 

Peace and love to all 

~ KO