DESPERATELY SEEKING "SELF"...

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In a recent trip home for my traditional vacation visit...I found myself once again, cherishing my roots and where I come from. Life is different in many ways, a little slower pace, a few more simplistic perspectives and values...but nonetheless, still remains my favorite thing to do every year. It is wonderful to "go home" where I do not have to seek validation for who I am, what I am doing, or why I choose to live my life the way I do. I am accepted and loved regardless...and the interesting part of all this, is that as much as I admire family and friends for living their lives so "simplistic"...they admire me for all that I have done and continue to do...it's amazing...the mutual respect and sometimes awe that we offer one another.

I believe at times, we tend to forget or overlook the habits we have for "seeking validation" or "desiring praises" for our own self worth, rather than just allowing our every day actions and words to do that for us. Somehow I feel that in our own insecurities, we feel the need to constantly "remind" or "tell" others why we are so great, or so smart, or so skilled at whatever craft we practice. It can be our work, our hobbies, our home life...so many things. If we truly believe in ourselves, it isn't even necessary; because our decision to "not brag" or "boast" shows our genuine "self" and it's real; flaws, insecurities and all. The whole package. While we should strive for excellence, the fact that we don't end up perfect is precisely what makes us our "genuine selves".

Those around us, who are part of our lives every day...past, present and future...can see that in us...we don't have to tell them or prove it to them...they just know. Being humble is a skill in itself...because our human nature leads us to feel as if we have to constantly brag about our accomplishments or strengths; so it does take work to force that tendency down and live humbly. It's a struggle. I feel like many of us actually become suspicious and have a hard time believing the "claims to fame" of others if they feel like they have to share that with us...I'd rather see it in action.

Our self worth should not be based on gaining or seeking praises for our actions or words or accomplishments...we are worthy, we are confident and self assured...we just need to believe it within our deepest soul and spirit. If we practice, it manifests itself within us...and it will show on the outside once we build it from the inside. Loving ourselves is the key, believing in ourselves...not dependent on the acceptance or compliments of others; because in the end, it's our own belief that will make us the masters of our own universe...not that of others. We can't deceive ourselves like that.

So as a note to many family and friends...here's a word of encouragement...I love you for who you are; I accept you even with imperfections and flaws, because I know you are real and genuine. You give me strength to plod along, and continue on my journey, exploring possibilities, taking risks, or simply just being who I am. Peace to all!