So many of us have lived our lives placing unmerited value on the opinions of others while discrediting our personal truth and reality.  Breaking the shackles of people-pleasing requires honest self-appraisal, a healthy dose of self-esteem, and an enormous commitment to self-realization.

“I came into this world not to make it a good place to live in, but to live in it, be it good or bad.”  Henry David Thoreau

Let’s take morality and righteousness out of the equation.  Let’s stop believing the world will change because of us.  Give up the concept that a god of mercy and justice will eventually prevail thus creating a new world system with peace and harmony filling the hearts of mankind.  Just consider for a moment that this simply will not happen.  What is left?

It is what it is.

One of my best friends from years back would console me with those words as we discussed faith and the world’s problems.  It is what it is and the choice is mine what to make of this life.  When I give up the idea that I will leave this earth a better place or that I somehow will miraculously change mankind, then is when I find peace of mind and inner harmony.  Then is when I can be the man whom I believe God intended me to be – just another soul living with gratitude for all of life be it good or bad.

I   AM   LARRY – worthy, unique, loved