How to Be a REAL ONE

Photography by @Beniam_Y (B.Y. Visuals

It’s really simple

Live life in the IMAGE OF GOD!

To truly embody being a "real one," you must live and breathe it—it’s both a noun and a verb. It’s not just about existing as one; it’s about behaving, acting, and doing. Being real requires you to rise above societal expectations and norms. Even when you don’t have a clear example of what realness looks like, your morals and spiritual compass can guide you. This journey is grounded in a connection to something greater than yourself—a higher power that anchors your actions and intentions. Live it. Reflect it. Strive for it. That’s the essence of being real.  

For me, to be a “real one,” you need to understand the root of realness and what it demands of you as an individual. Since realness is rooted in the Divine (GOD), you must grasp the qualifications and characteristics of the Creator of us all.  

 Realness Through the Word of God  

Here are a few Bible verses that help paint the picture:  

Genesis 1:27  

"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."  

This verse reminds us that humanity is made in God’s image, setting the foundation for living in alignment with His character.  

Galatians 5:22-23  

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law."  

These attributes of God are what we should strive to cultivate in our lives.  

Philippians 2:5-7  

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."  

This verse points to Christ as the ultimate example of living in God’s image through humility and service.  

There are countless other scriptures that highlight the essence of realness, but I’ll leave those for you to explore when you feel called to dive deeper.  

My Journey to Realness  

Being real is no easy task. It demands that you step outside your comfort zone and broaden your perspective. It calls for being selfless, bold, outspoken, and fearless—all while navigating a world filled with individuals who challenge those traits and create conflict for those who embody them.  

I’ve experienced this firsthand. Life has thrown its challenges my way, from betrayal by those I trusted to moments of deep loneliness where I questioned everything. I’ve felt the sting of bullying—words and actions meant to break me—and the weight of pain caused by people I showed nothing but loyalty and love.  

Yet, through it all, I’ve found peace in my heart and rest in my soul. How? By staying true to my values. I’ve learned to respond to cruelty with kindness and to hold onto love, even when others couldn’t return it. In doing so, I’ve kept my integrity intact, knowing that my actions align with my beliefs.  

Even when the world felt against me, my faith and connection to a higher power anchored me. Knowing that I’ve acted with love, honesty, and grace—even when it wasn’t returned—gives me the peace I need to sleep soundly at night.  

Realness Is a Journey  

Being a real one is a process, not a destination. It’s about navigating the highs and lows, holding onto your values, and continuing to grow through every challenge. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Because when you live in truth and love, even the hardest moments become stepping stones to becoming your best self.  

And let me tell you this: standing on realness means being prepared to die on that hill. It’s about holding firm to who you are and what you believe in, even when the world pushes back. Being a real one is more than a title—it’s a way of life that transcends the temporary.  

 Take a moment to reflect: What does being a real one mean to you? How can you align your actions with your values, even when life gets tough? 

Share your thoughts below or with someone you trust. 

Together, let’s commit to living boldly, authentically, and in the image of the Divine.