love thyself

A month or so ago, I spent thirty minutes listening to someone tell me what a horrible and worthless person I am. (Mostly true, by the way; I will never claim to behave perfectly.) It wasn't the first time I had heard this but this time, the effect on me was different.

In truth, it was the greatest gift I could have been given. I spent so many years seeking love and approval from others. I thought I needed it. Somehow, that phone call reminded me that I have all the unconditional love I will ever need - it is inside of me and it is in my relationship with my Creator. In the end, that is all that really matters.

But ever since, the words have been running through my mind in random moments and I could not figure out why. Then it hit me. It was because anything negative that anyone could ever say to me pales in comparison to what I have said to myself in the past.

I have come to believe that one of the most important things we can do in life is to learn to love and forgive ourselves. Because if we could live our lives from a core of absolute peace and love and kindness, doesn't it seem natural that we would be able to extend that peace and love and kindness out to others? Just imagine that world!

Besides, all the great Teachers have essentially said that love is the answer - who am I to argue. (Apparently I am slow because it took me 30-some years to figure out that they weren't just talking about loving others.)

Comments

[anne]

Just have a suggestion- don't ever talk to that person again, kay? And it is not true.

Anne

[Kara]

Yes! What Anne said!

I dont even KNOW you and I think you are a fabulous, warm, wonderful person! Seriously.
So, whoever that other person was is a liar who is so low that they tried to cut you with their words. I don't care if it was your mother, brother, or former best friend. It's b.s. and they need to be exiled from your life.
Dont even spend another second thinking about it. Everything they said was about themselves, not about you.
and if you need a second opinion about that, just ask Atlas.

Don't worry about what may have happened in the past - mistakes you made, regrets you had. Today is a new day and a new start, and just think of how great you are (see, we all come here to read what you write. what does THAT tell you?!), how lucky you are to be a healthy person living in a free country, and go do what brings you joy. We are all lucky to be here (alive on earth), enjoy the gift.

xoxox,
-kara

[Julie M.]

:) Smiles for the post about loving and forgiving yourself! ...But sorry you had to deal with that.

[Julie L.]

I'm sorry that you had to listen to that as well.... wow.

It is weird how it's easier to forgive someone else than it is yourself- it is definately true though..

[elizabeth @ the blue lotus]

@julie l: it is puzzling! especially since it's not always easy to forgive others (i've held my share of grudges so know this well ..)

@julie m: yes, love/forgive yourself = good. hey! that should've been my post - short and to the point ;)

@kara: thanks for the kind words. i was touched. :) you're right - every day is a new day and a new gift! that is a good reminder to live in the moment. (i should note that today is not a good day to ask atlas' what he thinks of me since i just dragged him away from three neighbor cats who did not agree that they should meet and be friends ;)

@anne: thanks for the suggestion .. i don't know if i'd do that, but i do realize that it wasn't a good idea to listen in the first place. hindsight is 20/20