Celebrating our Unique Identities

From a talk given at a meeting of Affirmation Venezuela in March.

Identity is a set of traits, attitudes, characteristics, and values that define us as unique individuals, differentiating us from others in society. Our uniqueness should be readily accepted, but this is not the case for many.

The world would be a very boring place if we were all standardized like a mass-produced products, with the same patterns, colors, beliefs, tastes, and values. Nature is full of diversity, and diversity occurs in humanity. The richness of life and its purpose of creation and learning lies fundamentally in the infinite and beautiful possibilities offered by diversity and variety.

Identity also includes diversity in spiritual nuances that transcend the physical, ethnic, national, and social spheres. The wonder of creation includes the individuality of each of Heavenly Father’s children. Providing for this individuality within His divine plan makes it all the more special. Knowing this, it is impossible to attribute the way we express ourselves, our feelings, and the way we love as being mistakes. Everything within us has been uniquely created for a purpose.

The divisions caused by our divine varied identities are temporary. Our identities connect us with Our Father in more extensive and wonderful ways than we can imagine. We share a divine origin and a glorious future. We should celebrate the wonderful present, inclusive of the full colors of God’s creation.

Jesus Christ loves us just as we are, including all our unique characteristics. He loves each of us. We are all children of Our Heavenly Father. With this understanding, we can seek to better respect and love one another, just as our Savior Jesus Christ said, “These things I command you, that ye love one another” (John 15:17).