I live in the Jacksonville, FL area, which has the distinction of being the largest city in terms of geographic area in the United States. We are also home to the St. Johns River, one of the few rivers in the world that flows north. While much of the world's rivers flow south the St. Johns River flows north.
I believe our identity works the same way.
Most people live from the outside in.
They allow their circumstances, job, role, money, and uniform to define them. They believe they are who society says they are. They believe their identity comes from what they do, not who they are.
They believe that what people on social media say about them defines them.
Unfortunately, this couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Your identity doesn't flow outside in. It flows in a different direction. It flows from the inside out.
Your identity comes from who you truly are, not what society says you are. The world shares one message but your true identity doesn't come from the world. It comes from the truth that you know in your heart and soul. It comes from who you are on the inside. It comes from God who put greatness and love and purpose inside you.
While much of the world will continue to flow one way, my hope is that you will flow in the opposite direction. Never let the opinion of others define you. Critics write words but they don't write the future. You do with your optimism, belief and actions.
Gandhi said, "I will not let anyone walk through my mind with their dirty feet" and when it comes to social media don’t let anyone walk through your mind with their dirty Tweet.
When Superman took off his superman outfit who was he? Many say he was Clark Kent but the truth is he was still Superman. It wasn't his uniform or cape that defined him and made him powerful. It was the power that existed inside him.
It was his identity that no one could take away.
Remember who you are and remind yourself that no one was the power to take away your identity and define you unless you let them.
When you remember who you are, you will be your most powerful and positive you.
And who are you?
You are a child of God and you are loved.
It's not politically correct to say it. But I'm saying it because it's true and I care about you. I know that when you know this you will flow north and flow more powerfully in the direction of your dreams to create the life you were meant to live.
-Jon
