Image vs. Identity
Last week I talked to a recent Medicine Wheel grad. I’ve been thinking ever since about what it is that makes us whole and happy. He said he’s always loved being outdoors but he traded what brought him real pleasure for what he called “urban crap.” He said, “I was very image based.”
Since I’ve been working for RedCliff I’ve been learning for myself the difference between image vs. identity. All around my office are tokens of both. Journalism awards. Pictures of my family. A pinwheel I bought one day at the grocery store just for fun. And frayed quote from a card my mom gave me when I graduated from college.
The quote, from author Louisa May Alcott, reads: “Far away in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead.”
Having a goal, a path, and someone to cheer me on helps make me whole and happy. To Medicine Wheel grads everywhere, thank you for sharing your struggle and your strength.