Defining Who You are

So many times we allow our things to define who we are. Often the loss of a favorite item brings this so close that we finally recognize and can learn to define ourselves more authentically.

A few years ago I found myself in a position that I gave up my one and only car. At the time I didn't realize how dependent I was on that car. I was living with someone who had a vehicle. So I thought I would be okay.

But I found myself shutting down. It was such a slow and subtle process that I didn't even realize it was happening. I was going through lots of changes at the time and being forced to question the things in my life.

I was faced with questions such as:

• why do you wear make up
• why do you carry a purse
• why do you eat those kinds of foods
• why do you like to go dancing
• why do you color your hair
• why do you want to work that job

Slowly I found myself giving up just about everything. And in the process I realized I no longer knew who I am.

They say, cleansing is good for the soul. But sometimes when we define ourselves by the things that surround us, it can take a long time to find that authentic person. Sometimes depression may even set in.

But the good news is. Once the dust settles and you have taken a deep long look inside. You, the real you, begins to shine brightly for the whole world to see. And you will never think of defining who you are by the things you use and enjoy.

Best of all, you can still have all those things. You just won't be defined or owned by them. That's when life really starts to get fun.