Tuesday; December 7

I make no bones about it. I realize I am not cool – in fact, I wonder sometimes if I am even relevant. I was reminded of this the other day when I heard the phase, “You do you” for the first time. (Since then, I have learned that a more formal version of the saying is “You do you boo”.) Interestingly, I also learned that this statement is approaching its second decade in our vernacular – that really made me feel outdated!
While there can be some value in having the self-confidence to be ourselves, the first time I heard this saying, it didn’t set well with me. “You do you” just seems so self-centered to me. It’s almost like a curt version of “I don’t care what you think, I’ve got to be me!”. The challenge with this type of thinking is that if it is allowed to morph, it can fly in the face of Christianity. Sure, we need to have the ability to walk to a different drummer – away from the “broad way” that entices many in our society – but we must do so out of a desire to serve God, not just because it makes us happy. In fact, a cornerstone principle of spirituality is to live for others. The New Testament reminds us, “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4).

Let’s be ourselves; but remember that we can be our own person, so long as that person is dedicating to loving and supporting others. When we do that, we will all feel a sense of importance.

Think About It!

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