DEFINING
OURSELVES BEYOND TITLES
Today is our day; the day to give ourselves the freedom to explore and embrace who we really are, beyond our birth names, nicknames
and married names. Outside of how friends describe us, how co-workers view us, the fronts put forth in
lies and even what enemies call us, who are we? How do we the people define ourselves beyond the
titles of our educational achievements, job titles and the badges worn? Who are we really beyond our titles;
when we are alone and no one is looking at us? What lurk in our hearts regarding others when we pass them
in hallways, reach out to dress their wounds or when we are confronted by those we feel superior to? The way we define ourselves beyond our titles are
important, but more than our definition of ourselves is the how we interact with others. Our actions, inactions
and reactions speak louder than words ever could. While titles are necessary measures of identification and are helpful in maintaining order,
they do not signify that one person is better than another. However, they are markers that tell people something about your
capabilities, positions and calling. Titles also serve to direct us as in names on buildings, streets and
airplanes. Often people who are defined by titles began to huff,
puff and quote their credentials when they fail to get their way. Many are abrupt with those they feel to be beneath them
and demand special treatment. Their associations usually are only with those they feel are of little threat
to them. Personally,
I need people around me that will challenge me to grow. They need to be confident, honest and spiritual.
Negative people will drain you and eventually betray your trust. Ask yourself, do I interact with people based on their status and or level of importance? Perhaps
you make eye contact with, smile at or speak to people based on their shoe brand, dress type or vehicle driven?
Does hairstyle, skin color, faith practiced or nationality determine who you associate with? Is
it all about what you can gain or are you cordial to everyone? I say to you that knowingly or unknowingly our actions
and or inactions will define us far above the titles worn. Further, our interactions will either bring
us together or separate us. Bear in mind, that there are no sensitivity programs or fancy slogans
that will change those who are not willing to change. Sensitivity comes from within and the lack thereof
is a character flaw.Only
when the “M” in the word me is turned upside down, do we get the word “WE.” All of us need to understand
that we are spending our lives together. Like it or not, most of our waking hours are spent with the people
that we work with. Together we can get the job done, but not if we allow ourselves to be separated by titles,
feelings of inadequacy and those that love discord. Remember that you are important simply because you were born.
Also keep in mind that the greatest of all was a servant. His name is Jesus the Christ. CR 2008. Ms. Alice B. Nixon-Barr, Author of “Views of You in Shaded
Hues: A Place Between Black and White and “The Up Side Of Down.” Order on
line through bookstores or view in your local library. This work is not to be duplicated in any form or
placed in any retrieval system, without the written permission of the above named author.
How Do You
Define Others & What Defines You???-
