I received a text from a friend with a photo and caption, “This is so not reality!”  Noting that what appears in the picture is not anything like what was experienced at that moment.  Creating an image on social media of what we want people to perceive, not always portraying the total experience as it plays out.   

It is hard not to buy into the images of everyone else’s life being so picture-perfect.  But often that is what we get, picture-perfect, but not necessarily reality.  

All these perfect pictures drive our insecurities and tend to bring on comparison.  The challenge is to look at the images on social media as a way to stay connected but not as a mode of comparison.  A glance at the photo and a kind word of encouragement to acknowledge the online acquaintance or friend.

The same holds true for our lifestyle.  If we look to impress other people for our strength, it is not sustainable.  When we look to Jesus for our strength, all things are possible.  

The reality is that love is enough.  Loving others and treating them with kindness and compassion will bring peace and strength to you as you walk through life.  Looking at others with love rather than jealousy is a huge step toward inner peace.

I don’t believe we set out to develop a photo or lifestyle that is a fantasy, but it does bring on the question of how is it sustainable.  If we are editing our photos how do we manage our daily life?  

Everything gets exposed as we live our daily lives because pretending is rarely sustainable.  As you look in the mirror be kind to that person and carry that compassion with you as you interact with others.  Love is real and reality is sustainable as is the inner peace within you as you carry out your journey.

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