We are all required to wear masks sometimes–so we think–but what really happens when we do?

They provide a false sense of security that slowly depletes our reality until we forget who we really are.

“You wear a mask for so long, you forget who you were beneath it.”
― Alan Moore, V for Vendetta

You probably already guessed that I’m using a double meaning of the word ‘mask.’ Two types of masks are currently relevant.

We are all aware of the mass production of homemade face masks flooding the world as governments require a mask to be worn in public places with every color and design imaginable.

Yes, even the mask comparison has begun (I’ve seen them marketed to be ‘stylish’ and to ‘match your outfit’.)
Whether I like it or not, I’ll wear my face mask right now in the hopes of getting through this crazy pandemic era, even though it’s inconvenient, no one can understand me with it on, you can’t see anyone’s smiles or facial expressions, and I have to keep smelling my own breath. Ugh!

But there are masks that are even more demeaning and destructive.
• Sometimes your job ‘requires’ you to wear them and you put on the fake persona that you’re someone who you aren’t.
• Sometimes your parents ‘require’ you to wear them and you go after a job that you never really wanted.
• Sometimes your partner ‘requires’ you to wear them and you feel stifled in the relationship and wonder who you are anymore.

There are plenty of other scenarios, but ultimately, they all boil down to this one important point:
These masks are not required, yet you choose to put them on.

You compare yourself to what you think other people think of you and you feel you don’t measure up to their expectations if you don’t wear a mask.
I used to wear different masks all the time, but I refuse to wear a mask anymore (well, except face masks to the store during the quarantine time period.)

Maybe I hit a nerve and you’re thinking, ‘But Renee, you don’t know my situation! If I don’t wear this/pretend this/be this, then…”

Then…what?

What is it you’re fearing underneath that mask? Sometimes we actually fear learning who we were created to because we’re afraid that people won’t like that person.

I get it! I’ve been there. But I promise you, you have a choice, and when you choose to take the mask off and lean into your true self, you’ll discover confidence, contentment, freedom.

You can choose to be in control of Comparison and take the mask off.

It may not be easy at first, but it’s worth it, and it gets easier with time. I’ll be sharing details and some exciting news soon that will help you with the process of taking off your masks and being who you’re created to be so you can do what you’re designed to do. Be on the lookout!

I’m so excited for when we all do not feel the need to wear masks.

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