A new chef struggled to get a job, and to believe in himself. An exclusive restaurant was hiring. He concluded that the owner would not hire an inexperienced chef. His friends convinced him to submit his resume, personally. Sadly, the owner did not even ask for his name or resume. He was lamenting that all the applications were from inexperienced chefs, except for one from a well-known chef. Incidentally, our friend intercepted a message from the well-known chef to the owner, apologizing that he relocated. Our friend pretended to be the well-known chef and got the job. Customers loved his dishes. Everyone was happy until he was found out. John the Baptist was not confused about who he was. He could have claimed to be the Christ. But he was happy and satisfied to be an unworthy voice preparing the way for Christ. Part of knowing who we are is to know our strengths and weaknesses, accept these, and strive to become better. This is the secret of possessing joy in our lives. Then our soul will proclaim the greatness of the Lord, and our spirit rejoice in God our Savior. Then we will be happy and contented, like Mary and John. The good news is that God desires your happiness, and with him all things are possible.
 
Prayer: Lord, you love and accept us as we are. Help us to love and accept ourselves also, and stop trying to be who we are not. Amen.