We are not imposters. We are not fakes or frauds. We are not trying to be something we’re not. We’re all just messy humans who are learning to navigate this crazy world in the best way we know how.

Life is full of twists and turns, ups and downs, and unexpected detours. It can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving us feeling lost and unsure of ourselves. But amidst all the chaos and confusion, one thing can help us stay grounded and true to ourselves: our authenticity.

I remember this one morning my friend and I woke up especially early to go and watch Cape Towns’ sunrise up at Signal Hill. As I sat there and watched the sun slowly creeping up on the horizon, illuminating the sky with her kaleidoscopic shades of pinks, oranges, and yellows, I remember whispering to myself: May I have a heart and a spirit that is as genuine as the sun. 

I have always considered the sun a powerful metaphor for acceptance and realness. Each morning, it rises and illuminates the sky with its radiant warmth and light. It doesn’t try to be anything other than itself. It doesn’t try to change its colours or its brightness. It simply shines as it is, in all its magnificent glory.

Just like the sun doesn’t dim its light for being too bright, we, too, have the power to exist in the fullness of our light. We don’t need to conform to societal norms or expectations. We don’t need to change our personalities or beliefs to fit in. We can simply be ourselves, shining and basking in the beauty of our realness.

Letting our true selves shine through can be scary, especially when we fear rejection or judgment from others. But we must not forget that when we embrace our realness, we inspire others to do the same. We become a beacon of light, guiding others toward their authenticity. 

To be authentic is to be true to our identity, even when it’s difficult. It means staying true to our values, beliefs, and passions, no matter what others think or say. It’s how I also interpret Brene Brown’s message that we can be at ease with anyone, anywhere, or in any environment, as long as it doesn’t necessitate us compromising our integrity. Once our growth becomes stunted, and we find ourselves suppressing parts of our being to fit in or make it through, we cease to belong in that space. Resorting to such measures to gain entry or remain strips us of our sense of belonging, not just in that space but anywhere else. Belonging is about embracing who you are, both internally and externally, and that’s easier said than done, but certainly a journey worth undertaking.

We can choose who we want to be, and I hope we can all choose to be like the sunrise, shining brightly and authentically in all we do. Our differences: our stories are what make us who we are; these are stories that deserve to be heard, to be seen and lived…May we embrace our most genuine selves (even if they are messy and imperfect); May we embrace the untamed and stunning spirit within our souls. May we always honour our wiring and distance ourselves from situations that prompt us to alter our identity to fit someone else’s ideals. May we never compromise our unique individuality for anything in this world. Your natural gifts cannot be replicated or matched by anyone or anything— cherish and celebrate them, always.

You are not an imposter.
You belong here.
You’re welcome here.
You, like the sun, are a powerful force of nature, rising each morning to illuminate the world with its precious rays.