The Illusion of Material Value

I learned many years ago that in the society in which I was raised, it was more likely than not one could easily, and oftentimes did, put their sense of identity and personal value into their things – e.g., the home in which they lived, the clothes they wore, the car they drove, the diploma they held, the trips they took, and adorned themselves in an environment that perpetuated the same values.

True Character vs. Material Gain

In this process, their character development became something of no account. What they could gain materially, through using or misleading others for their own personal benefit, became their way of life. In the process, they started to falsely consider themselves better than others who were not similarly situated.

That same phenomenon holds true today. The practice is still in play, even though the current economy makes this game harder to maintain.

A Valuable Lesson from My Friend Judy

Judy’s patients were mostly healthy young men who, through injury, were rendered paraplegic or quadriplegic, with a life expectancy of 10 more years at best. Despite the challenges she faced daily, her philosophy on life was simple and profound. One of the most important tenets she shared with me is one I have never forgotten – simply: As long as you can walk, think, speak, and feel the sun on your face, you have no problems. Her wisdom and strength influence me every single day. Adopting her concepts blessed me with the aspiration to lead a more meaningful path in regard to my own life.

Embracing Authenticity

When the external and superficial become all that are valued in a society, it takes a great deal of courage, self-knowledge and respect to abandon pride, dissolve ego, let go of the superficial values held by others around you, and become involved in the betterment of your own character, along with the wellbeing of the community in which we live, and the care for the planet which sustains all of our lives.

Now About You:

● Reflect on what holds you back and take one step towards embracing authenticity today.