Being Different

Why is it that people in general strive to make everyone average? I recently got a pair of Vibram FiveFinger shoes and was talking about them with some friends. One friend expressed their disgust by implying that they wouldn’t want to be around me if I was wear the FiveFingers. Really? Are the shoes more important than the person? Why would looking different create such a response? People of all different ages like to fit in. We like to feel a sense of belonging. We dress similar, do our hair similar and live in similar houses. We have home owners associations to keep everyone similar. Some even undergo plastic surgery to fit in. Standing out from the crowd is generally frowned upon. God tells us to be who He created us to be, with our unique appearance and talents. Jesus stood out even though it’s said of Him in Isaiah 53:2 “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.” He didn’t invest in His outward appearance. However, He spoke different and acted different. He stood out like a light in the darkness and like a city on a hill. We are called to do the same. Matthew 5:14-15 says, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”

When I was growing up I stood out in school because I didn’t swear. People actually felt uncomfortable around me because I talked with non-vulgar words. One day I actually was offered money if I’d say a swear word. They wanted to be able to justify they’re cursing by getting me to participate. Let’s stand out for being followers of God. Don’t be concerned with what others think. If it’s not a sin, just be yourself and bring honor to God’s reputation by being who He created you to be.

Next month I'll post a workout that incorporates my new shoes….