There are certain buzz words that gain in popularity and trend for a while.  Lately I’ve heard “authentic” and “transparent” used more often than not.  Remember when “Über” was all the rage?  Although I respect the meaning of these words and was pleased when originally hearing them, their over-use unfortunately tends to fade the sincerity that lies within their true meaning.

I began to wonder if the word’s meaning was being used to mask it’s opposite.  When a person says he or she is “authentic” I wonder if they’re hiding something.  When a company says it’s transparent are they leaving something out?

Advertisements use this tactic well.  This concept caught my attention a while ago as I thumbed through the yellow pages and happened upon Attorney ads showcasing a greying lawyer in a conservative business suit kneeling next to a 2 year old with a caption speaking of trust to mask the stereotype of lying lawyers.  I also happened upon Physician’s ads where their incredible depth for compassionate caring is highlighted.  It’s no secret many find doctors lacking in compassion.

Once a buzz word trends does the majority pick up on it because the word genuinely resonates with their purpose?   Or does a word such as “authentic” get placed superficially and deliberately upon oneself to mask or impress?

Does it really even matter?   I’d like to think the current over-use of trending words comes either from the limited vocabulary in the English language or at least from a person with good intentions who if not genuinely certain whether or not they’re either transparent or authentic is at least truly striving for it.  Sometimes we stumble upon a word that brings meaning and good feeling and create a vision of a way of being to work towards.  That’s a good thing.

Hours after writing this observational article the universe presented me with a site that genuinely uses AUTHENTICITY in their way of being…in their HOW of being.  This was a lesson for me to see what true authenticity in action is and of course to communicate my admiration of people who make a difference.

Take the time to see why HOW is The Answer. <– click it