For a very long time, I wanted to be the same. I wanted to be accepted. I wanted to fit in with others. I wanted to feel as though I belonged. Interestingly enough, as I spent more time discovering, working on, and loving myself, I realized that acceptance was nothing in comparison to authenticity. It didn't even come close to alignment. I stopped trying to prove myself to the world and started praying that God would position me where I needed to be and that he would open my heart, mind, and life to a peace and purpose that made every day worth living. I placed more concern on my character and stopped placing my reputation on a pedestal because I knew my value would never be found in the words, opinions, or validations of others. It was found, developed, and perfected in God alone.
Morgan Richard Olivier - One Still Whisper
