Are you being you?
A folktale on authentic living
We live in an era of fluid identities, where navigating multiple roles has become a cornerstone of modern life. From being a caregiver to young children or ageing parents to a creative thinker at work, an advocate for social causes, and a cheerleader uplifting those around you, each role adds depth to who we are. Yet, as we move through these evolving roles and expectations, the challenge of staying true to ourselves becomes ever more pressing.
In this ever-shifting landscape, the question arises: How do we stay grounded in who we truly are?
There is an old folktale that touches upon this sentiment.
There once was a Rabbi named Zusya who was very old and seemed to be in his final days on earth. His students gathered by his side and asked him all sorts of questions. Finally, one asked him, "Rabbi Zusya, what do you fear most about dying?" "I fear what they will ask me when I go to heaven," he replied. "And what will they ask you?" the students inquired. "They won't ask me, 'Zusya, why weren't you like Moses?' Or 'Zusya, why weren't you like Abraham?' Or 'Zusya, why weren't you like Noah?' They will ask me, 'Zusya, why weren't you Zusya?'
This folktale serves as a beautiful reminder to reflect on who we truly are, embrace it, and live it fully. Rabbi Zusya's fear was not about failing to emulate others but about failing to fully embody and honour who he was meant to be.
Think about the many roles that you play in your life. Which of these roles feel most aligned with your true self, and which feel like they pull you away from it? What small changes can you make to stay more connected to who you truly are?
We leave you with this life lesson from 44-year-old Jillian Mari Harris, who learned the essence of living authentically from her father through a simple yet profound proverb: "An oak tree doesn’t have to tell you it’s an oak tree."
Do you have a perspective that you would like to share on how to live authentically Share your life lesson with us!
Stay authentic,
Team FUEL.