by Natalie Lynn Borton
A few weeks ago, guest blogger Catherine Galbraith discussed the Golden Rule from a different perspective: loving ourself the way we love others. In essence, she reminded us to treasure ourselves as we are instructed by God to treasure others.
I personally relate to her struggle, as I find it easier to speak kindly to others rather than use positive language about myself in my mind. I'm quick to insult and dwell on my failings, when I know if someone else was in the same position I would encourage them in their strengths instead. I often choose to see what's not right about me rather than celebrate all that's good and fabulous. Why is this?
Treasure yourself is a true challenge to me, and I have a feeling it might be for a lot of you girls as well. Difficult as it would be, what might it look like to live out the challenge those two words present?
For me, it would be pretty much doing the opposite of what I'm doing now. I would acknowledge my shortcomings, but cherish my gifts. I would accept my body's natural shape rather than criticize it for not looking like someone else's. I would treat myself to rest and quiet time and a latte on a tough day, because that's exactly what I would do for someone I loved. I would nourish my soul above all with prayer and scripture, because through that I best understand who I am and what I'm living for.
So today I ask you, how do you treasure yourself?
I try to monitor my inner voice - change its direction from one of criticism to one of praise. It's when I do this that I feel so much better about myself. It's amazing how it can change how you feel!
ReplyDeleteSo true--it's not our natural instinct to think positively of ourselves, but rather something we need to be intentional about!
DeleteThis is one of the hardest things to do for myself. I can totally relate to you Natalie. Thank God we have a big and patient Father! :)
ReplyDeleteThank God, indeed!
DeleteA very important message I think a lot of women should live by! I try to treasure myself by looking at my body and being content with it. I also let myself go out without makeup sometimes with the thought that "hey I'm beautiful no matter what!" I wish every woman could get into the same mindset. It's tough, but it's possible! :)
ReplyDeletedaydream frenzy
Thanks for sharing! Those are all great ways to cherish yourself, and inspiring thoughts to remind us that we are worth so much more than what we look like.
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