We’re encouraged to forgive others. But have you forgiven yourself? Have you taken the time to be your own best friend? Have you looked in the mirror, at the person you are today, and say ‘it’s okay?’ I mean really? It’s not an egotistical act. If you live a life of service, it’s essential for self-preservation.
It’s hard to maintain genuine service to others when you’re berating yourself or running on empty. A lot of it is well-intended; some people simply want to be a resource for others. Have you ever heard the reasons why you're not kind to yourself (But I don't think I'd be good... But I don't have the time... But I'm not worthy... But I have others to think about... But if I don't do XYZ, it won't get done...)? Sometimes, people are used to hearing the same old self-defeating message repeatedly that they can't recognize when something different is offered, like help or inclusion.
Be kind to yourself today, examine those old thought patterns and consider if they still serve you today. And remember--it's okay. It’s okay to be you. You don't have to save the world on your own. You’re allowed to have faults. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to fit someone’s idea of who you need to be. YOU ARE ENOUGH. We are all part of two great equalizers: birth and death. Most of us struggle with the middle. How do you want to spend your time on earth? The choice is yours.
Two Wolves Parable (Cherokee Legend)
An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy.
“It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.” He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”
The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”
Parable from www.firstpeople.us/FP-Html-Legends/TwoWolves-Cherokee.html
