Truth
Truth is not an absolute; it is only defined subjectively. Truth and honesty are relative to one another and as such their relativity compounds the definition and understanding of authenticity. I have been thinking about this as I reflect on my relationships- personal, professional, and casual.
With that as a preamble is it possible to define authenticity? Only as it relates to the perceptions and common understanding of a group of individuals sharing similar values. What I mean by this is that our core values, backgrounds, education and life experiences lead us to establish certain standards and expectations with regard to behavior and mores in our interactions with others. We define what is authentic primarily based on our identified cultural values.
I spent the past 30 hours in the company of friends whom share similar backgrounds, interests, experiences and political and social values. I did not understand how isolated, alone and disconnected I felt until I had the opportunity to be with these friends who avowed similar opinions on healthcare, government, spirituality, music and lifestyle choices.
I found an affinity with my surroundings that I was unaware I was missing. I am questioning whether Phoenix is somewhere I can even call 'home' as it seems to represent and be composed of so many things I eschew: malls, chain stores and restaurants, urban sprawl and environmental resource consumption.
Spending the past few days in an anti-establishment town of artists, hippies, independent liberals has awakened me to my own sense of hors de combat with regard to activism, spiritual practice and liberalism.
I knew I was off center and out of balance, but had no idea how far from the core of my truth I had traversed. Not only am I questioning who I am, but also what is my truth?
Thank you my dear friends who so generously invited me to come and do absolutely nothing but be myself. I think I like me when I am authentic with the core of my own truth.
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