Breaking the Silo: Embracing Authenticity Beyond Anonymity
- John Mothershead
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Comfort in the Crowd
For nearly 15 years, living in New York City, I found comfort in the anonymity of the big city. While I cherished warm greetings from neighbors in Astoria, Queens, and friendly interactions with families across Tribeca, the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, and Murray Hill, the city's hustle allowed me to blend into the background when desired easily. People often preferred talking about themselves, and I was more than happy to oblige.
When I moved back to my tiny coastal hometown in California in 2022, I was suddenly confronted with the stark absence of anonymity. Here, everyone remembers everything, especially the awkward or embarrassing moments from preschool or elementary school. My memory from those early years is admittedly thin—perhaps a defense mechanism from enduring relentless bullying—but locals vividly recall a version of me I’d rather forget: the highly insecure, deeply closeted, and desperately inauthentic teenager struggling to navigate his identity.
Stepping back into this community felt like being transported back in time, with people assuming I was the exact same person: insecure, fragile, and deep down, scared. Initially, I regressed, retreating into a cautious shell. But gradually, over these past couple of years, I began reclaiming my place and identity. Still, part of me quietly longed for the anonymity of New York.
Living Life in Siloed Success
My life here is successful but segmented: my day job in marketing operations for a nonprofit thrives; my political activism recently escalated with roles as president of my local Democratic club, a position in the County Democrats, and even election as a state delegate for California’s Democratic Party; my spiritual business as an intuitive artist and angel coach has expanded globally, and I found local camaraderie with healers and psychics at biannual fairs hosted by our local metaphysical shop—events that once would have terrified me.
Yet, these successes existed in isolation. Politics never crossed into my spiritual circles; marketing analytics were never discussed among activists, and I never hinted at my spiritual work among political colleagues. That was, until this past Sunday’s Psychic Fair.
A Sign from the Universe
As I began setting up my booth, I glanced over to see the former accountant from my "muggle" job arranging her table right beside mine. My jaw dropped. What was she doing here? Turns out, she partners with an animal communicator and creates essential oils for pets. These fairs usually featured the same handful of familiar faces, so her presence felt profoundly serendipitous—a gentle nudge from the universe to embrace the entirety of who I am.
But the universe wasn’t done nudging. One booth beyond hers stood none other than a local city council member. Not just any council member, but one I'd openly criticized in letters to the editor for lacking courage in standing up against far-right forces despite calling herself a Democrat. There she was, offering readings and healings, right in my psychic circle.
Initially frozen with anxiety, I buried my head in my phone, messaging friends about the unbelievable coincidence. Yet, determined not to let discomfort cloud my day, I finally ripped off the Band-Aid. Taking a deep breath, I walked over, smiled, and greeted her warmly, remarking how pleasant it was to see her outside council chambers. The brief, friendly exchange dissolved my anxiety, and I returned to my booth lighter, clearer, and more authentically myself.
This couldn't have been a mere coincidence. The universe was unmistakably delivering a message: it was time to break the silos that compartmentalized my life. No longer could I afford to hide behind anonymity or neatly segregate my passions and talents. It was time to integrate my full, authentic self into every aspect of my existence.
Reflect on the Silos of Your Life
Take a moment to consider your own life:
What parts of yourself do you keep hidden from different groups?
When do you choose anonymity out of fear or comfort?
How might your life transform if you fully embraced your authentic self?
A Ritual for Breaking Your Silos
To begin your journey toward full authenticity, try this simple ritual:
Create Your Sacred Space: Find a quiet place and light a candle, symbolizing illumination and authenticity.
Identify Your Silos: Write down three key aspects of your life that you typically keep separate. Beside each, note one fear or concern you have about integrating them.
Release and Transform: Safely burn the paper, visualizing your fears dissolving into smoke, releasing the energy that kept you separate.
Claim Your Authenticity: End with this affirmation: "I welcome integration and authenticity into every part of my life. I am whole. I am seen. I am enough."
We live courageously, authentically, and joyfully when we embrace our whole selves. Your authenticity is your strength—it's time to step fully into your truth.
Upcoming Events
Comentários