identity: n. Difference or character that marks off an individual from the rest of the same kind.
identity theft: n. The deliberate assumption of another person's identity, usually to gain access to that person's finances or to frame a person for a crime.
Isn't it interesting how we, as humans, go about our everyday lives, never giving a second thought to a whole multitude of subjects, circumstances, or scenarios--that is, until we turn a corner and find ourselves dealing with one we had neither planned for nor expected? These issues may run the gamut from dreadful to exciting; ordinary to momentous. There are those who would say that variety is the spice of life. Or not. Some circumstances are just very difficult and ponderous.
The theft of my purse with all of its contents several days ago thrust me into just that kind of a position, putting my mind and my life in a place it had not been before. It certainly wasn't something I had previously considered. As with most people, my wallet contained credit and debit cards, my driver's license. Just that morning I had put both my personal and business check books into the purse. Breaking a cardinal rule, my Social Security card was also tucked away inside. I knew better, but I carried it with me anyway. It was my original and hearkened back to the days when I was a young girl, earning money by picking strawberries, raspberries, and beans every summer. So much for sentiment.
Identity theft has become something other than a term I read or hear about. In the days since the experience I have found myself thinking about what that really means.
According to a research study, in 2017 there were 16.7 million victims of identity fraud. The amount stolen last year hit $16.8 billion. While my experience was one of physical theft, thieves have found a gold mine via cyber space, where personal information is accessed and then used for their own gain.
I am a one-of-a-kind, a specialty item, as are each of you. In all of time, there has never been another "me," nor will there ever be. Somewhere in the heavens, there is probably a collective sigh of relief over that one. In my mind's eye I can see my Mother nodding her head in agreement.
Every single thing about me is unique and complex. That is what makes my identity mine and mine alone. Try to wrap your mind around the fact that each and every person in all of time has his/her own individuality, and it is impossible, as impossible as the fact that each and every snowflake is different. There are no duplicates, and that is mind-boggling.
This is the conclusion I have come to: The term "identity theft" is inaccurate. It is not possible; it cannot happen. The substance, the essence of a person cannot be stolen. No one can take my identity nor any other's. Someone stole several things that identify my physical life--the credit cards, driver's license, and Social Security card. But they did not steal my identity. It's not up for grabs.
And for that I am grateful.
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you." Jeremiah 1:5
"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." Psalm 139:14
"But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid..." Luke 12:7
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