When I was studying and starting my adult journey, I adopted the phrase “to thine own self be true” as my motto. Authenticity and integrity were important to me. However, when I reflect on the various phases of my life, I wonder whether I adhered to this principle.

I seem to be a chameleon, adapting to any situation I find myself in and pursuing the course that others set and with equal vigour and energy. Looking back, there were times when I truly compromised on my values because of expediency.

As a Gemini, I could always argue a point from different perspectives and I was able to switch allegiances with alacrity. It all depended on my mood at the time or the prevailing consensus. If someone else was presenting a point in a dogmatic way, I would make a point of taking the opposite position in the debate. I didn’t think I was being untrue to myself, because I could see the argument from both perspectives.

Now, as I settle into a new career in my third age, I again reflect on this issue of authenticity. Over the last year, I have been peeling off the masks one by one. I guess it is easier when you reach my age and start to feel more comfortable in one’s own skin.