Tree or Shadow

"Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow.

The shadow is what we think of it, the tree is the real thing."

Abraham Lincoln

When I think of Abraham Lincoln, my mind can go in hundreds of directions, but to limit him to one word, I would choose honesty.  Information about President Lincoln reflects a self-taught man who consistently brought complicated subjects to a level to be understood by all men using accurate words.

I do not have the sense that Abraham Lincoln desired to be anyone but his improved self.  He believed that every individual could work hard and therefore be rewarded with safe living.  He was able to look beyond the obvious and discern the truth beyond.  

He came in contact with numerous reputations about others, but he would hold his assessment until he met the individual in person.  He believed reputations were just shadows and preferred to engage with the real person.  He inferred that shadows were what we assumed people were, while meeting a person let us view the real thing.

Messages of Others

"I don't like that man.

I must get to know him better."

Abraham Lincoln

The world is stock piled with individuals who have original ideas or strengths to make life an extraordinary experience.  It takes perseverance to fully come into ourselves to enhance our authentic gift.  Once we are aligned, we are eager to join in efforts for improvement to be freely shared with all.

It is therefore ironic, after dedicating the authentic self to be unveiled to the world, we find fault with others.  We become annoyed by those who do not see our way and irritated by others who don't even want to listen.  Judgment comes rushing out of our brain, forgetting that they too are authentic and entitled to his or her own domain.

Each human being has a message to bring to the world.  Granted, some are not as earth shattering as others, but our knowledge is intended to collaborate with others.  Respect and honor feels just as good to the other person as it does to our selves.  When faced with dislike for a song, art, or cultural issues, transfer the hate energy to go deeper until we not necessarily embrace, but simply understand the message of the other.