Living our authentic self means honoring all parts of who we are. That includes our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. They allow the soul to express itself in this world. We tend to bury our thoughts, feelings, and emotions to please our family, friends, and society. We do not express happiness so that others don’t get jealous. We do not show sadness so that we don’t seem ungrateful. We hide our grief so that we don’t worsen someone else’s grief. We cover up our anger so that others don’t feel unsafe. By doing these things, we also bury who we truly are, the authentic self.  ​

A big part of our mental well-being is feeling of value to the world. Our authentic self wants to live life with purpose that makes a positive impact on others. One way to do that is by volunteering.

There are so many needs in a community that can be met with just an extra pair of hands. From walking dogs at an animal shelter to mowing the grass of a disabled homeowner, there are many opportunities for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Even using 5 minutes a week to take the trash out to the curb for pickup would mean so much to an elderly neighbor who struggles to lift small objects.

Finding out a loved one has died is like a detonated bomb that damages the boundaries of presence.

You have a sharp moment when you are present (finding out the person died). It creates a pain so big and powerful that your mind and soul cannot contain it. That pain explodes, creating heartbreak.