When we are young we live life with vigor and let our true selves shine like the morning sun. As time marches on we learn to hide most of our true nature and personality in order to conform and to avoid being labeled an outsider or freak.  We will spend many decades behind a mask of our own design to protect ourselves and avoid the problems that one faces being different. Conform for work, conform for friends and in many ways conform and hide ourselves to keep harmony in our family.

Being true to oneself, being who you really are deep inside is something we owe to ourselves and the world we live in. That Diversity within personalities, beliefs and idealism is what makes the human race a force to be reckoned with. It was those who stood up against the norm and the general beliefs of their time that has pushed humankind forward, it helped us all to grow as a species and advance our knowledge and wisdom. Many of the greatest explorers and inventors were not what you would call conformists or mainstream in thinking or behavior . It’s those who push their limits and think out side of the box by being who they are to the fullest that have made some of the greatest discoveries.

Because everyone does something or believes something to be true does not mean it is so, it’s those who dare to question and explore the alternative ideals and ways that usually make the greatest discoveries and help mankind to move forward.  Do not put limits on your imagination and do not hide who you are from yourself and others. Be yourself to the maximum and practice free thought without limitations.

Of course Society needs some rules of conduct so we know how to and how not to behave in public, but this is not to say we can not be ourselves as long as we know where to put on the brakes. Behaving Civilized does not restrict one from being themselves , just keeps them from going too far is all.

Be yourself, Live life with vigor and with both respect for others and yourself. Walk with compassion and understanding as your guide. Remember we all have feelings and we all need help at one point or another in life. That person who you helped by buying him or her a dinner could be you if circumstances happen to change in your life. There is no guarantee tomorrow will come or that you will be employed beyond today.

Life is like an adventure and you are the explorer, you and the experiences you have in life are the best teachers you will ever have.

Peace and Serenity be yours

Ray Barbier