Identity Crisis

Identity Crisis

I recently activated my Instagram account and

the world has exploded as

I am now connected

but have I become

obsessed with the ubiquitous

SELFIE!

Selfies of

buff dudes flexing & posing

fashion conscious women who

flaunt their bling

pose with their nails, footwear, and adornments

& besties or

bfs or crushes

or Chihuahuas.

Sigh. 

So many photos are only THEM

In the same pose

With the same smirk

or grimace.

Sometimes, I do the same thing.

whether it is at the gym where guys furtively

check out each others’

biceps,

at the university, where I am surrounded by

students (and colleagues)

who are (re-)creating their image

in so many ways.

or online where friends and followers

show off

their wit,

their possessions,

their life.

It is so tempting to figure out ways to position myself so that I look good

At the expense of others

And of my soul.

I can't help but wonder

Is this who we really are –

Posers and Provocateurs who

hide behind our flaws and our fears?

Do we have any humanity left where we truly

Care for the world around us

Or

Are we addicted to

OURSELVES?