Walking the Walk: Embracing Authenticity In Everyday Life

Anyone can talk the talk, but walking the walk takes perseverance, courage, confidence, and integrity.

Walking the walk means putting your words into action - not just saying you care, but showing it. It means following up on your promises and meaning what you say.

To mean what you say, and say what you mean.

Actions will always speak louder than words. I've heard it said, "You've got to fake it to make it."

This philosophy may work for a short period of time, but eventually it will come back to bite you. You can only fake something for so long before being discovered.

Being known as a "grandstander" or "showboat" is not cool! These are people who talk the talk, and then talk the talk again and again. They love to brag about their accomplishments. They name drop as if they know important and impressive people. They dominate every conversation, trying to make others feel inferior in their presence.

Where are these people when real needs arise?

They are usually nowhere to be found. I don't know about you, but I find this behavior to be unimpressive.

Men and women who walk the walk don't usually feel the need to impress. Their actions speak louder than their words.

Characteristics of men and women who walk the walk:

• When they say they love someone or something, they are committed to the person or the cause through the good times and the bad times.

• They are consistent.

• When they tell you something, you don't feel the need to go behind them to verify the story.

• You can count on them to tell you the truth.

• They don't demand attention.

• They prefer to put the spotlight on someone other than themselves.

• They are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and help others who may be less fortunate - even when no else is around.

• They work hard for their money.

• They take care of their bodies because they know physical fitness is good for the mind and the soul.

People who genuinely walk the walk are impressive, even though they are not doing any of these things for that reason.

If you are looking for a good role model, I recommend that you look for someone who truly walks the walk. Then do your best to grow into the kind of person others can emulate.

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus once said, "Live not one's life as though one had a thousand years, but live each day as the last."

Take time today to celebrate the men and women in your life that walk the walk.

Thank God for the influence they have on you. If they are still alive, acknowledge them for all they do for others.

I called one of my role models/mentors last week, just to let her know how much I appreciated her, and to thank her for the influence she has had on my life. She is 95 years old, and we had a wonderful conversation. The next day, I received the following text message from her:

"Sue Ann, Thank you so much for your kind words yesterday! That meant so very much.

Blessings as God uses you! I would love to pray for you, for your needs. Please just text me."

Even now, at the age of 95, she continues to be a woman who walks the walk.

Thought for the day - What will people say about you when you are no longer

around?

Have A Great Day!

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Thank you!