Authentic Living

This Week's Quotation:

“I am not interested in what people say, I am interested in what they are living.”

—John Demartini

Authentic Living

 

Rev. Berry Behr, Interfaith Minister

Teleology—the study of meaning and purpose—invites us to consider that our lives are not random. Each of us carries an inner orientation toward what is true, meaningful, and alive within us. The most important task for my own life has been to understand my core values. Our true values are born with us: the unique expression of our primal spirituality.

As a minister, I am sometimes requested by couples to facilitate pre-marriage conversations. I ask them to name their values. Many speak of communication, love, financial stability, family, and trust. These are beautiful qualities that support social cohesion and moral living. Yet I sometimes wonder whether they are truly the core values of the couples, or whether they are images of who we believe we should be, shaped by family, culture, and expectation.

I recognize this pattern in my own life. For years I tried to fulfill a picture of the “good life” held up by parents and community. But it was not fully my truth. Only by searching inward could I begin to discover the authenticity that allowed me to build a life aligned with my real gifts and purpose. It was helpful to look at what I was actually doing, what was working in my life. Actions are a clear signpost to truth, and sometimes the absence of action is more about what we dream of doing but haven’t had the courage to do yet.

Becoming one’s authentic self is a spiritual practice. It asks for commitment, deep listening, and the courage to change thoughts and behaviors so they honor inner truth rather than worldly image. Whatever form that spiritual practice takes, when approached with sincere intention, it reveals who we truly are. Once we touch this truth, we encounter something sacred—the presence of the Divine within our own being, guiding us toward our intended path.

Meaningful spiritual practice matters, and interfaith harmony is its loving outcome. Authenticity cannot coexist with separation, hatred, or fear. To live authentically is to honor the sovereign truth within myself while respecting the same sacred uniqueness within you.

Can you name the three core values that you express in your life through your actions?

About Open Windows

We, the authors of this blog, dedicate it to the transparent exploration of the world's sacred scripture and enlightened spiritual thought. We believe that the original inspiration of all faiths comes from a common source, named and revered in a myriad of ways. With that understanding, the innumerable symbols, beliefs, and practices of faith cease to divide. They become open windows to a common reality that inspires and unifies us. We find deeper insight and nourishment in our own faith and from the expression of faith from others.

We hope these weekly quotations and meditations speak to your heart and soul.