Authenticity: Unlocking the key to significance.

Photo by Sabo Tercero
Today I summed up a few things I had been reflecting about after reading a note from an old colleague. This is what it sparked in me:

In the GREAT stage of life, my role is small and might go unnoticed, if not for the fact that I can put into it that which only I can contribute. And I can do it with so much love and enjoyment that it becomes memorable.

I know the theater reference comes from my recent work as producer/actress for the Mexico Cast production of Fiddler on the Roof. But bear with me. What about the learning opportunity for the larger picture? Lately I have been dealing with people who lock up their own feelings and are not straightforward about their views, forthcoming about their wants or easy to deal with for me. It’s been a challenge, to say the least. My first reaction is to steer clear away from them. I might still! But in my dealings, I have found great opportunity to understand my own slant towards authentic expression, onstage and off.

It’s about how small a role is. You see, in some ways it is much easier to shine and get noticed if you have been assigned a big, juicy lead. Still, in our play there’s the Rabbi that barely says a few words and becomes one of the most applauded actors on this stage. Certainly, he is seen and remembered by the audience. There’s a mastery about him, that comes only from years of work and spotless technique. But I wonder if it is only that which makes for this star power? I believe not. It’s the fact that he OWNS this role. He makes a conscious effort to do it just right. To lend himself to it enough, while remaining reflective enough of its effect.

The more authentic you are in general, the easier it will be to learn about yourself. So, in my dealings with authenticity or the lack of it, the journey inward holds the greatest learning. Am I being authentic? Am I being guarded? What am I afraid of? Is my role too small?

When I become whiny and hide behind victimhood I might feel I am out of place and should go find people I can trust more. Still, there’s this nagging voice in the back of my head: how do YOU contribute to this? My eyes have not been open enough. There is an alternative to being guarded called being aware. Of myself and others. Of what they do and say and what I do and say. Am I making sure I am clear? Am I listening for the music and not just the lyrics?

So today I am thinking that anyone’s role is small in the grand scheme of things. Yet, we can play it big. Authenticity is key to unlocking your very own contribution to others. That special way of being and doing that only you can contribute. It’s there. We need only find it.

I intend to enjoy the areas where I hold a leading role. They are effortless and fun. They let me shine easily. And, if I use them to build my self-awareness, they will guide me to how I might lend light to the smallest roles of life. Those that might go unnoticed or might just make a big difference.