What does it mean to be genuine, bona fide and truly what you claim to be? This is the stuff that constitutes the authentic person.

Whatever else can be said about the authentic person he/she possesses two qualities in bold-evidence that tower above all the rest. The authentic person is "unpredictable" and "responsible."

It matters not that you are familiar with the authentic person or that you are in frequent contact with him/her, you will still find him/her to be "unpredictable." You cannot predict how he/she will behave. No, you cannot put the authentic person in a box or put a label on him/her that will for once and for all define him/her. When greeting the authentic person you cannot predict whether or not he/she will shake your hand, embrace, hug, kiss or just look into your eyes without saying a word. The authentic person may say the darnest things, things that you may be afraid to say or be embarrassed by when you hear another person say them. The authentic person tells the truth openly and frankly. And that includes saying what he/she thinks about you or perceives you to be.

The authentic person is also a "responsible" person. He/she acts responsibly. So, while you cannot predict what he will say or do, once you come to know him, you will take satisfaction in knowing that he/she will act responsibly. But because he/she cherishes truth and honesty you may not always be comfortable when in his presence, especially, when that truth is about you.
O yes, the authentic person does not take life seriously but rather as a Cosmic joke. The authentic person is humorous and "so-whatish?"

Observe the authentic person and you will be rewarded. You may even be inspired or challenged to become a bit more authentic yourself. Beware! It is not easy to find an authentic person.

What is authenticity?" It is simply being real, simply honest and honest simply. Being authentic is the greatest health dividend available to a huamn being.

Copyright 2007 by Uriah J. Fields