I remember during the early 1970s ( in my late teens/early 20s) ID bracelets were quite popular. Being a rebel individualist I had my bracelet engraved not with my name but with A Person. I did not want to be labeled. I was a person. On a trip flying home, the person sitting next to me tried to make conversation by beginning with “So Ms. Person what’s your destination?” I still vividly remember my reaction. He thought my name was A. Person. What if the plane crashed and the only identification was my bracelet? Would anyone know I was me and not A. Person? And then the laughter at such a question. And then the silence to hear the words again… “anyone know I was me and not a person?”

Truly a day of identification. The publisher of my little book has posted the video interview where I share my thoughts on the book and you get to see nature’s gifts around me (http://youtu.be/tqxXz6k3m78). In two weeks I will have completed a three year path of coursework to begin a new career at the age of 60. In two weeks I step out in the field and begin. My future site supervisor called and wanted me to come to his office. He was as animated as a child at Christmas handing me my name tag. It was like graduation. A small simple name tag signifying that the threshold was official. The door not only opened, but I had been invited in and welcomed. Of all the name tags and badges I wore during my 35 plus years in my prior career, somehow this simple little badge was different. The difference magnified by the excitement of the one placing it in my hand as he instructed me to bring my stuff and claim my desk as my mine.

Time and moves have long since lost that little ID bracelet. I think of it often and the question. My parent’s called me Elizabeth then shortened to Beth. Others have called me many names because of my beliefs and life. The video calls me author. I call myself a hobbit because of my simple life and love of nature. I call myself Piglet because I can be quite fearful, small, and Pooh is ever so precious. The name tag bears my given name. But as I look at it, with these weary weary eyes, for today, it reads a person. Just me. Imperfect. Trying. Uncertain. As I am. No longer thinking I am going “home” or what the end of the journey will be. The path is home. May I honor whatever names the path offers in the essence of my true given name…me…a person. And with that compassion and grace to gift the same to all others.

Blessings to all. I bow in honor and grace to your person, your me, your beauty and truth.