12/24/98

Authenticity in 1999

1999 is the last year of the 20th century. This fact has no inherent relevance. It just represents a span of time, after all, a year like any other. But endings and beginnings are fraught with meaning for most people, including me. Each day that passes in 1999 will be the last day of each month to ever elapse within the 20th century. The countdown has begun in earnest.

I plan to waste less time in 1999. We are only allotted a limited amount of time and no one knows when theirs will end. So why not use it as wisely as we use other limited resources, such as our natural resources or money? My plan does not exclude time for relaxation and play; but it does exclude moaning about boredom!

Every day dawns with chances to take risks into the unknown -- to express my ideas as a writer, to push my physical limits, and to follow my curiosity about unexplored ideas, places and people. Freeing myself on paper feels irreparably risky at times, lest I reveal ignorance and draw scorn from readers. But if I sugarcoat my opinions, I'll draw nothing but yawns!

To push my physical limits, I plan to take exquisite care of my body and mind. I've read and talked enough about it; now I just have to apply information and principles I already have. Easier said than done, I know, but it's a commitment I make to the quantity and quality of my life.

Following my curiosity comes as naturally to me as breathing. I've always enjoyed delving into ideas in print, conversation or the media. These activities inevitably lead more deeply into spheres of knowledge or evolving friendships, which I have always valued highly.

Finally, as I explore the unknown during this year, I plan to strive for personal authenticity as much as possible. Sue Patton Thoele, in her book The Courage to Be Yourself, writes about this challenge when she says, "One of the greatest risks we take, one which is often painful and requires great courage, is to relate to others - especially our children- from the position of who we truly are, not as an anonymous role made up of shoulds and stereotypes. Through our example of learning how to be and express our true selves, we encourage others to be who they genuinely are." I find the idea of freeing others through freeing myself especially appealing.

Endings and beginnings hold so much promise. I wish for each of you a year full of fulfilled promises and bountiful dreams that transport you into the year 2000 and beyond, dreams you create and make whole as expressions of your unique talents and personal spirit. The new century awaits each of us, not only as the people we are, but also as the people we are yet to become.

Please send questions or comments to bbruno@snet.net.