Did a parent ever say to you, “Don’t be selfish?” Yes, I heard that a few times as a child, and often hear parents say that to their children today. As an adult, we are often told to put ourselves first and to reach for the desires of our heart. I am wondering if there is sometimes a conflict in knowing how to balance our desire to be selfless as well as to be self-fulfilled. Hmmm . . . did that question ever come up for you?
I often talk to people who are struggling with not feeling loved. When I ask them if they love themselves, there is often a pause, a confusing look, and a comment that suggests it is not OK to boost, to praise oneself, or to reach for desires. There is sometimes a need to please other people at their own expense.
It is important to be authentic to ourselves. It is a day-to-day practice to honor the gift of ourselves, being aware of the programming that may have occurred either by others or by our own “not good enough” thoughts. We can realize that it is OK to please ourselves, to be proud of the qualities that were given to us in this miracle called “Life,” and to say “No” once in a while. In our interactions with others, we should ask, “Are we trying to please to be liked, to be unselfish or to not look bad, or are we sincere in what we want to give.” Are we being authentic and kind to ourselves in our daily walk? That is only up to us to decide.
On a daily basis, we can each go to that inner sanctum, ask for Spirit’s guidance, and gently return to the realization of the Magnificent Essence of who we are. It is helpful to nourish our Soul through meditation, inspirational readings, and activities that bring fun and enjoyment. One should ask themselves, “What makes my heart sing?” And, “How can I be kind to me today?”
Allow yourself to monitor your thinking, to recognize your Greatness, and to change any thinking that is not supportive. You can help people by being your authentic, worthy and magnificent self. You can be selfish in a magnificent powerful way while giving to others in a selfless way that honors both you and them. Loving ourselves can be the first step. I support you in your authenticity and being you.
Love and Light,
Janet Ann Gottshall, RsP Emeritus
Religious Science Practitioner
Oh, Janet, how lovingly and beautifully well put. It was a gentle yet powerful reminder of that way of doing life that says “me care” first makes us all much better interactors in our physical world. Thank you!
Love, hugs and gratitude
Needed to hear this while laying in bed recovering from last 2 days, the guilt has subsided some….