"It's Who I Am"

I found myself using that expression shortly after I started my blog, referring to this project. The next day I lashed myself ten times with a cornstalk. I cringe when I hear that expression, even though at the time it spoke eloquently to what I was feeling. I hate it because it is built on a lie.

Take the gay argument, for instance. Gays have used this saying a lot, in an attempt to find acceptance. That is why it is so heart-breakingly wrong. Your sexuality is not what makes you who you are. "Who we are" is a one-of-a-kind individual with a distinctive combination of personality, character, interests, abilities, and values. What in the world does that have to do with sexuality? There is so much more to being a unique personality, sexual preference is way down on the list. (And this blog reflects only a small part of my interests and values.)

God said it best. He calls Himself "I am who I am" (that's what Jehovah means). I think that's just great! He knows who He is, through and through. Take it or leave it. Yet according to biblical scholars Jehovah has no gender. So let's stop defining people by their gender preference or any other specific trait. Let's enjoy the uniqueness of people and appreciate them for what God created them to be—the total package, that is. People are SO interesting, if we just take the time to get to know them.

I have a similar distaste for the cousin expression, "I am trying to find myself." Live your life, and it will become obvious. Get a job you like, go to church and take in the message, and spend your spare time enjoying your family and helping others. When you are busy doing the right things, life finds you. You don't need to look for it.

Loving who I am and hoping you do the same,
Margaret