"The deepest desire of my heart is to see another and to be seen by the Other."
St. Augustine



Last week, I shared my thoughts on "being good enough" during the holidays, so that you could take time to enjoy your family.  My challenge for you was to live with authenticity and only do what you can, especially during this busy season!

This week we are taking it a step further and sharing what I think is one of the greatest gifts we could give this season:  The gift of seeing others for who they are and allowing them to truly see us.  Living authentically allows others to see you and experience the peace you have found in no longer hiding. They aren't trying to figure out who you are, compete with you or impress you. By being who you are, you are showing others in your life to be who they are meant to be.

What does it mean to live with authenticity?  According to, Brene Brown, "authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day.  It's about the choice to show up and be real.  The choice to be honest.  The choice to let our true selves be seen."

Imagine for a moment what it would be like to be in a room with your family and everyone has been given permission to be real and they know they are "good enough."   What does that look like?  Maybe your husband doesn't have to be working the entire holiday because he isn't seeking self-worth from his employer, co-worker or family member.  Perhaps your sister doesn't have to go home early because she feels overwhelmed by the paralyzing anxiety of not being accepted for who she really is.  Maybe your parents hug you and tell you they love you just because and there aren't any strings attached.  It could be something even smaller like you are able to say, "no" without feeling guilty or being bullied to change your mind. 

Are these things possible?  Only if you give yourself and those around you permission to be real.  To be honest about who they are and where they are on their journey.  To be "good enough" and accept that for what it is.

This Christmas take the time to really see those around you and let them see the real you,  

Breathe in the joy and peace of the season.

Peace & Gratitude.