The Power of Authenticity: Honoring Yourself and Celebrating Others

For a long time, authenticity wasn’t something that came naturally to me. Growing up in a conservative part of Indiana, I learned early that certain parts of who I was weren’t “acceptable.” I was ashamed of being gay and felt like I had to hide a core part of myself just to be safe. Later, in the military, that pressure to hide became even stronger. I learned how to fit in, how to wear a mask, and how to keep parts of myself buried so no one would question me.

On the outside, I was strong, capable, and reliable. On the inside, I was living with the heavy weight of pretending—of being afraid that if people really knew me, I would lose love, acceptance, or belonging.

What It Means to Be Authentic

Authenticity is about showing up as your true self, even when it feels risky. It’s about aligning your life with your values, and letting your heart—not fear—be the guide. But here’s the truth I’ve learned: authenticity isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a practice.

For me, it meant slowly learning to peel back the layers of shame and fear. It meant allowing myself to love who I love, and more importantly, to love myself without conditions. It meant realizing that the parts of me I once tried to bury were actually the most beautiful, powerful pieces of who I am.

Why It Matters to Celebrate Others, Too

Something amazing happens when you begin to live authentically—you start to recognize and celebrate the authenticity of others, even when it looks different from yours.

For years, I judged myself harshly, which also made me judgmental toward others who didn’t “fit the mold.” But as I grew in self-acceptance, I realized the richness of our world comes from people being different. We don’t have to agree with everything someone else believes or does to honor their right to live their truth.

When we let others be who they are—and celebrate them for it—we create space for them to shine. And in that reflection, we shine brighter too.

A World Built on Authenticity

Authenticity is contagious. Every time someone chooses to show up real and unapologetic, it creates ripples that give permission for others to do the same.

So today, I invite you to reflect:

• Where in your life are you still hiding?

• What would it feel like to let yourself be fully seen?

• How can you celebrate the authenticity of someone in your life—even if their truth looks very different from yours?

I spent years believing I had to shrink myself to be accepted. Now I know that my authenticity is my strength. And the same is true for you.

Your truth matters. And when you celebrate it—while honoring the truths of others—you help create a world where everyone belongs.