Driving down I-95 this past Saturday, I sat quietly praying to God how I would handle some toxic relationships in my life. Post-pandemic, many are feeling their emotions and looking to blame another for whatever ails them. As a pastor, I am feeling not only my congregation’s anxieties, but have been processing my own as well. Life is difficult when the comforter needs comforting. In processing some toxic relationships, I sat praying while i drove the long stretch of interstate towards home.

Somewhere between Melbourne and Vero Beach, FL there was a billboard that read, “Be True to Yourself”. I had been praying for a sign and didn’t really question this one when I saw it. Dealing with toxic relationships has a way of wearing on confidence and emotions and spiritual strength and so on. I have decided that removing myself from toxic situations is one of the best ways to be true to myself.

I have also found that after coming out of the closet publicly last October, there are some that want to shove me back into the closet. As I have sat with this thought the past few days, I realize there is a feeling of permission-denying being felt. The question I have come up with is, “Who gave anyone, outside of me, the right to control permissions in my life?”

To be true to yourself means to live and act in alignment with your core values, beliefs, and authentic desires. It involves being genuine and honest with yourself, and not compromising your individuality or integrity for the sake of conforming to societal expectations or the opinions of others.

Being true to yourself requires self-awareness and introspection to understand who you are, what you stand for, and what genuinely makes you happy. It means making choices and decisions that are in line with your own personal truth, rather than trying to please or appease others.

When I am true to myself, I prioritize my own needs, dreams, and aspirations. I have learned that I need to listen to my inner voice, trust my instincts, and follow my passions and interests. This can involve setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and pursuing paths that may be unconventional but resonate with my authentic self.

Being true to yourself also means accepting and embracing your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your unique qualities and quirks. It is about celebrating your individuality and not being afraid to show the world who you truly are, without pretending or putting on a facade.

Living authentically and being true to yourself can lead to a sense of fulfillment, inner peace, and a deeper connection with your own purpose and meaning in life. It allows you to cultivate a genuine and meaningful relationship with yourself and others, as you attract people and experiences that align with your true self.

I love me. I love the authentic me.If others cannot accept that, I am sorry, but as Shakespeare once said, “To thine own self be true.”