THIS piece is certainly not about selfish, narcissistic tendency. The Bible says, “Love your neighbor as yourself”.
How can you love others if you do not love yourself?
“You have to love yourself. That’s the single, powerful thing. Out of that springs: How are you eating? How are you exercising? How are you resting?” (Nia Peeples) May I add: How are you choosing your relationships? What activities and hobbies take up so much of your time and resources? How are you improving yourself?
People who love themselves are wise enough not to associate with individuals who have questionable character. They know that frequent association might influence their values and choices without them being aware of it – just like good tomatoes in the same crate as the rotten ones. Sooner or later, the close association will create an impact – the good tomatoes will end up rotting like the others.
People who love themselves choose positive hobbies – fun, productive, stimulating, positive, and affordable. They can engage in such hobbies as often as they want. The cost is minimal or maybe there is no cost at all. People don’t lose a fortune composing songs, making bonsais, playing basketball, reading good books, raising a vegetable garden, and playing musical instruments. What hobbies can you develop without compromising your health, your finances, your family, and your peace of mind?
People who love themselves develop a positive attitude. They replace hurt with forgiveness (and they do it even if it is not Christmas time or Lenten season). They don’t dwell on disappointments. They work and expect greater things.
They focus on what is beautiful and achievable. Although it may be hard, they strive to let go of things that are detrimental to their well-being.Do you feel that you have to let go of something in order to become a better you?
Love yourself. Choose relationships, activities, hobbies, and attitudes that will make you grow and glow! “If you are happy, you can give happiness. If you don’t love yourself and if you are unhappy with yourself, you can’t give anything else but that (Giselle Bundchen).
Like and share this column if you agree.
Marilyn Arayata: inspirational author, columnist, speaker, and former DLSU-D faculty, your partner in preventing bullying, depression, and suicide. E-mail [email protected]. Like the Hope Boosters Facebook Page for nuggets of hope and inspiration.
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