Embracing self-love can be an intimidating journey for many of us. When my dear friend Sammy inquired about a blog solely dedicated to loving oneself, I initially planned it for the future. However, I've decided to bring it forward and delve into it now.
Loving yourself authentically and deeply can be a formidable task. Stand before the mirror, gaze directly into your eyes, and passionately declare, "[Your Name], I LOVE YOU!" Feel that love resonate throughout your entire being and penetrate deep into your soul. Take it a step further, move closer to the mirror, and plant a kiss, symbolizing not just self-love but a profound connection with the essence of who you are. Yet, maintaining this constant sense of self-love in your daily life poses its own challenges.
For me, arriving at a point where I can look in the mirror and sincerely say, "I LOVE YOU" has been a lengthy journey. When you can stand there, affirming your love while scanning every part of yourself, you are in love with the person who knows you best—yourself.
Throughout my life, I found myself consistently prioritising others, often saying yes, even if it meant sacrificing my own needs. From footing the bill at meals to feeling guilty when others paid for me, I subconsciously believed that others were somehow better or happier, especially those with financial abundance. This perception, however, was a misconception. Having witnessed individuals with substantial wealth look down on those with less, I realised the fallacy of equating financial status with personal worth. Judging others without understanding their unique journeys only perpetuates ignorance.
Returning to the theme of my perceived inferiority, it stemmed from a lack of self-love. I constantly felt inadequate, like a failure. The turning point came when I was diagnosed with a life-altering disease in the early nineties. This crisis prompted profound introspection, leading me to recognize my inherent value, lovability, and uniqueness. Despite my grandmother expressing her love for me, such affirmations were scarce within my family and societal context, where openly declaring self-love was often considered unconventional.
Looking back, I wish I had embraced self-love sooner. These reflections are personal, but to me, LOVE stands as the ultimate force capable of conquering all challenges. Deeply loving oneself, acknowledging personal significance, and recognising one's inherent beauty and uniqueness are transformative. The realisation that you matter, that you are lovable, and that you are the most amazing person you've ever met fosters profound self-love.
These thoughts are subjective, but the essence lies in the belief that love is paramount—it can overcome any obstacle. As I write this, a surge of emotion courses through me; the hairs at the back of my neck stand, and goosebumps adorn my skin. Why? Because I am tapping into a profound love for myself emanating from the depths of my soul.
When asked about my one wish, I respond with a twofold answer. First, a wish for a world at peace, as a peaceful world is synonymous with a world brimming with love. Second, the wish for a world where every individual loves themselves on such a deep level. As I love deeply, be it a particular person, a friend, or a family member, that love stems from the depths of my soul. I hold the belief that if we all learn to love ourselves profoundly and extend that love from the core of our souls, we can collectively manifest a planet characterised by love and peace.
Love, Light and Blessings.