Isms: Original views on life from rural America

What does it mean to be authentic?

Credible. Trustworthy. Real. Genuine.

These synonyms for the 2023 word of the year, as selected by the folks at Merriam-Webster, make an important statement about the times in which we live.

In an interview with the Associated Press, editor-at-large Peter Sokolowski said searches on the dictionary’s website for the definition of “authentic” are normally high. But in 2023, Sokolowski reported searches were “boosted to new heights.”

“We see in 2023 a kind of crisis of authenticity,” he said to AP. “What we realize is that when we question authenticity, we value it even more.”

I don’t know if that makes me sad that someone doesn’t understand the definition of the word or angry that society cannot differentiate between what’s real and trustworthy or something imitation.

Honestly, I shouldn’t be surprised. Look at the rise of artificial intelligence with sites like ChatGPT or deepfake images and video which are often used to scam others. These elements are antonyms of the first definition of “authentic” in Merriam-Webster’s book of words. It’s like pouring a teaspoon of imitation vanilla flavoring in cookie dough. Use the real deal. The results will be so much more satisfying.

Truth be told, look at society in general. How many people in your circle would you say are true to one’s own personality, spirit or character? That’s definition number two for “authentic.” Do you know many individuals who are honest with themselves and others, who take responsibility for their own shortcomings? It seems like that circle shrinks rather quickly.

Those of us who work in the news industry hear it in conversations about the news, how “fake news” (don’t get me started) outweighs what’s credible. That will never be the case in this community newspaper. Our role is to serve as watchdog, to report the truth. Sometimes, the truth hurts, but we will always share the genuine story. We remain true to our mission, no matter what news is reported.

I might not have given the 2023 word of the year another thought because I think I have a good grasp on its denotation and connotation. Then, a conversation about the best way to share the paper’s Top 10 list gave me pause, making me reconsider if metrics are the best barometer. I believe it’s one way to get a real glimpse of what topics draw online readers. The list, which appears on Page 1, is comprised of the most-read article from our website, based on reader engagement.

Being authentic requires vulnerability, integrity and transparency, elements many of us aren’t always comfortable showing. It’s time to change that in 2024.