To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

I love this quote by American essayist, lecturer and poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson. I think it is more applicable today, in this moment, than any time previously. We are more and more divided into tribes based on our political views, social views, economic views, and so many other polarizing issues that demand conformity to the collective’s ideology, and it is causing severe damage.

As a society we need to get back to a place of understanding, empathy and compassion for one another. No one is perfect and every side’s ideas have flaws and misconceptions. We need to stop our assertion that we are right so there must not be any other leeway for other’s opinions, preferences, thoughts and ideas.

In this world of extremes, it is indeed a great accomplishment to be yourself and to live out of that identity no matter what others may do or think about you.

– Jason