Just Be You
I appreciate people who embrace their true selves without the need for titles or badges. My brother Frank was always a carpenter at heart and loved working with wood. He ran a construction business for many years, but even after retiring, he would discuss potential projects where he could build something. My dad was a preacher throughout his life; even after he stepped down from pastoring, he continued to share scriptures and talk about his faith. My brother John is a writer and a musician, expressing his creativity even within the confines of his own home. If you spend time with him, his passion shines through.
No titles or applause are necessary; this is simply who they are. They don’t need businesses to run, churches to pastor, or fame to seek; their gifts are innate and beautiful. I’ve tried to emulate that by being true to myself. Without a church to lead, I’m still a writer, a preacher, and I love to play my music. I don’t need a title to do what I do; it’s just a part of who I am, with God as my witness.
My sister Martha will always have a knack for decorating houses, my sister Susan is a deep thinker, and my brother Joe is wholeheartedly dedicated to his spiritual pursuits. Even my brother Philip, despite his handicap, will continue to tease those around him and, of course, enjoy drinking Mountain Dew until the end.
My mom, the most remarkable person of them all, found her greatest joy in being a mother to seven children. She loved sharing stories about our family's past and her grandfather's church. Her love and respect for her family, including her siblings and Grandpa Jones, were always evident.
I believe there is something truly extraordinary about discovering your true calling in life and living it out authentically, without needing validation from anyone else. Each person I’ve mentioned has many qualities, but these are the ones that stand out to me.
Be yourself, and you won’t be imitating anyone else. You’ll be an original, finding joy and fulfillment in being true to who you are.