Loving others has nothing to do with pleasing people and living for validation in return.
And loving yourself isn’t neat. It’s messy with self-acceptance and self-betrayal. It’s learning to forgive yourself for not always abiding by your core values. It’s giving yourself time to keep exploring who you really are. It’s gratitude for always and already being loved by God.
Loving yourself is knowing that you deserve commitment, first and foremost from you.
It’s recognizing that this life ain’t just about you and the fears shaking up your head. It’s shining how you shine even when it’s scary. It’s helping someone else with your gifts and glorifying God in the process.
So if you, like me, have been a people pleaser, you can begin to change that narrative. Identify yourself as recovering and move forward, accordingly.
If you, like me, are easily distracted on the path of personal growth, don’t beat yourself up. Just start with small acts of discipline. Pray for help. Meditate on an encouraging verse or quote. Until you mean it, say those three words of utmost affirmation to yourself: I love you.
And if you, like me, often compare yourself to others, remind yourself over and over that you were never meant to live the life of someone else, not even your favorite preacher, motivational speaker, mentor, best friend, or the person you follow on Instagram with the dope highlight reel.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
Roots & Hope 