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Self-Love, reflection…

Patricia

Kindness Challenge Week 1
Self-Love
Reflection

I think we all struggle to some extent with self-love.  I think we are often taught that loving yourself is not a good thing and that loving yourself is thinking you are better than others.  True self-love is not an ego trip. It is simply allowing yourself to be who you are, accepting all the bits and pieces that make you real.

I did not have much in the way of self-love as a child and young woman. I was raised not to make waves, to be quiet and keep what I thought and my opinions to myself. I really didn’t allow myself to be me. I did whatever I could to be like everyone else, to fit in. When I realized I wasn’t ever going to be like everyone else there was some serious rebellion that happened. That didn’t work either.  I was miserable.

I didn’t like myself. I certainly didn’t love myself. What I did know was that things had to change. It took time, a lot of work and tears…and a good bit of laughter. I learned that I am a little different in some ways and a lot different in others and it’s okay. I am not worthless. I am a good person.

This week while pondering self-love I realized I still have times when I really don’t love myself. Those are the days when I tell myself lies about myself. I tell myself I am stupid, ugly, have no talent, no friends, no one cares about me…all lies! This kind of thinking doesn’t happen often and when it does it is usually when I am not feeling well and dealing with chronic issues that are troublesome and tiring. Of course, this is when self-love is most needed and is most often denied.

I didn’t think I had a mantra but while pondering self-love I realized I do have one. When I start telling myself lies about myself I look in the mirror and say;

mirror-1359469_640

You are who you are and that is something to celebrate.
The little part of the world you inhabit needs you.
Go be who you are and do what only you can do.
That is why You are here.

2017-kindnesschallenge-participant
Click here to read about the Challenge  and the Reflections

 

 

 

15 thoughts on “Self-Love, reflection…”

  1. Such a wonderful mantra, and every word of it true! My story is so similar to yours, and it took me almost fifty years to realize that I am good just the way I am, which is a little different from most others. Like you, I believe that God made me for a purpose and has me just where He needs me to be. I am good enough, and I will continue to work to walk more in the footsteps of The Master. This was an excellent and very honest reflection on self-love. XOXO

    1. Thanks, Josie. I was about fifty when I realized I’m ok…different but ok. Makes all the difference in how I see life in general.

  2. Those are some powerful self affirming words in your mantra. Your mantra helps us all who struggle with not feeling good about who we are, and your post lets us know we aren’t alone.

  3. Thank you for sharing, Patricia. I’m glad this isn’t a constant struggle and that you’re going to be more mindful to tap into your mantra when that feeling does arise. I think this week’s focus will support you with what you’ve shared. I can’t wait to see how week two goes! Sending you lots of love!

    1. Thanks, Niki. I think being old helps with the struggles. I’ve learned that time is precious and to make the best of it…except when I forget. 🙂 I am glad you are having the Kindness Challenge again this year. It’s good to have encouragement and support.

  4. Oh, trust me, the world does need you. You are a blessing and an inspiration. I am thankful for you. Excellent and important mantra too. HUGS, my friend.

    1. Maybe the messages we heard as kids were not encouraging? I think so much goes back to childhood and how we processed what we heard and saw. See you later in the week.

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