Identity Tag

Our opinions of ourselves are often based on the opinions others have about us. If we have been labeled by others, we are tempted to take those labels and wear them. What have others called you in the past? Stupid? Ugly? Lazy? Fat? Worthless? Selfish? Immoral? Maybe on the playground or perhaps in the midst of an argument, who gave you the label that you wear today?

Our view of self must be grounded in the opinions of those who love us most and know us best. For a follower of Jesus, it is obvious where that view should originate. To give someone who does not know us intimately the power to render a verdict on our worth is reckless. To build our lives on the truth is the path to peace. “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” (John 15:15)

“A humble knowledge of oneself is a surer road to God than a deep searching of the sciences.”- Thomas a Kempis

“If you do not ask yourself what it is you know, you will go on listening to others and change will not come because you will not hear your own truth.” - Saint Bartholomew

“Let us remember that within us there is a palace of immense magnificence.” - Saint Teresa