A Gift

How does it make you feel when someone says “you have such a gift” when speaking of your skills or talents? For years I have felt a sense of pride and gratitude, but also shame. Shame, as in someday, someone will discover that I am not capable or good enough and all that I have created will come crumbling down. These are not rational thoughts, but they sneak in, like wedding crashers, and ruin those exchanges that are meant to be filled with sincerity. My pre-programmed thoughts were sabotaging my life!

I was raised to believe that the amount of work I performed was equivalent to my worth. Fortunately, I am at a point now where I can see how much that engrained thought process inhibited my growth and backed me into a corner of “survival mode” mentality rather than thriving. Forty-one years into this life and here I am, ready and leaning into the mindset that allows me to wake up knowing even if I do nothing today, I am still worthy of the joy, love, and happiness that is present in my life and on its way.

When we can learn to love ourselves the way we love others and give space to create healthier, respectful ways of caring for ourselves then we aren’t just “talking the talk” we are “walking the walk”. The value in self-care and self-love is not a selfish thing to prioritize. I am learning this daily. There should be no shame in taking the time to address your own needs. This is the catalyst for self-expansion and being the best version of yourself. Your best self will inevitably be a light and example for others that they can do the same. When we ask for support and help, this is how we collectively grow. The more we can connect in an authentic and vulnerable way, we will realize how we are far more similar than we are different.

A reminder to us all that we are a gift, a gift to ourselves, loved ones, communities, and our planet. When we acknowledge our power and worthiness, we can be the creators, change-makers, and advocates this world needs now, more than ever. Step with me into this era of thriving. It is the way.

With love,

Meg