Appearances

Is it better to maintain the "appearance" of innocence or to be innocent of maintaining "appearances"?*

Would you rather have people thinking the best of you while you constantly maintain the appearance of having your world all put together. Or do you prefer to live openly and shield the shots in judgment and criticism as they fly by? It's just human nature - we all do it - we judge things and make assumptions based on what we see right?

Many people from my past and present are rising up and asking me about what they see or what "appears" to be a reality in my life recently. Most of the concerned critics wouldn't have a window into my world if it weren't for cyberspace and social networking. With that in mind I accept responsibility for what I share. And often what is posted on those sites is a reflection of the truth but is often only one small aspect and fragment of my reality.

Regardless of people's perception of me and who they thought I was and am, etc. I have been authentic in my posting both here and on my social networks. It's only a small percentage of what I do and how I spend some of my time but this small percentage is just as real as what you don't see me doing.

I can't fairly be upset for long at those who form their opinions of me based exclusively on what they see online. After all I'm the one willingly sharing and posting both online and off. I guess that is the price I pay to be innocent of maintaining the "appearance" that makes perception comfortable. I'm secure enough in my world to face the scrutiny and controversy that authenticity brings.


*copyright - Marian Tuin, 2009 - All Rights Reserved