The Powerful Nature of Authenticity

As I sit here today, two days after the event itself, I can still recall wonderfully the effect it had on the classroom. It was a usual two hour class, approximately half way through learning about statistical power when something struck a chord, albeit, a good one. It turned out our prof had just that day become a Godfather. His best friend's baby was born that night. You could feel the excitement from the classroom begin as muffled voices and whispers fueled the biggest smile I may have ever seen across the face of the man in front of us all. It was inescapable how this single moment brought so much appeal. The compulsion to feel his happiness was all in the authenticity.

It was the sheer joy that the event had brought this individual that could not be veiled or hidden in any way. His pride shone from ear to ear and in return the class was able to share. As we are confronted each day with societies advertising, social media, and a sheer volume of information,  I think authenticity has gained so much value. Hearing about someone's life and how they either sank or swam in that situation is in many ways a more valuable lesson to us as students and individuals than the power of an ANOVA in class (though also important!). It's moments like these, such as taking the time to catch up with a friend, or sharing time to volunteer, that's become increasingly important in our society.

Allowing yourself to be authentic and share that emotional realness with others is valuable. While it strengthens your own self-concept you also benefit those around you who get to share in the experience and open up for themselves. While we pride ourselves in individuality in Western society, perhaps it is time to shift the focus from personal success in wealth and status, to the authenticity expressed by people who propagate their own identity, and in the same swoop, allow us to connect with them on a deeper level. As the ripples begin to spread, that single genuine smile could truly impact a group of students, let alone one.