“Love thy neighbor yes, but love thyself first” — Solange Nicole
Beautiful artwork by Stacey Hoffer Weckstein
“That’s wonderful, I’m so proud of you,” I said bursting with pride. One of my friends called to share something extraordinary with me. She took the first step toward a dream she’s had for quite some time.
I instantly felt full and relieved; I honestly believe that her success was my success.
As she went on to provide details, I wiped congratulatory tears from my eyes and listened intently relishing the sound of her voice. What she was doing was impressive but I think I loved hearing her explain it more than the actual thing itself.
She was happy.
I think we all have moments like this, when we are genuinely happy for other people. And I’ve learned over the years how critically important it is to surround myself with people who believe in me – even when I don’t believe in myself.
Every now and again, though, we need to turn the mirror of veracity on ourselves and provide the same love and support that we provide to others to ourselves. For me, the truth is that I often found it easier to have enough faith for everyone else.
“Nothing is impossible for you.”
“I know you can do it.”
“It’s already done.”
These words flow freely and in earnest to the people that I love because fundamentally I do believe they can do anything.
Sometimes I don’t quite give myself the same courtesy.
I’m thankful that I’m seeing things a bit differently now. I realize that the best love I can provide to my friends is to love myself first. Authentically doing/living/being my best self and showing myself grace and mercy begins the circle of gratitude that surrounds us all.
Good reminder to spread the self-love. All too often we forget that WE are one of the most important people in our lives.
You got it! Yes, indeed.
@ Katie,
Well said.
I Love It!! Simply Beautiful!
Glad you like it, girlie!
What a lovely gift to give your friend… a listening heart as well as listening ears!
Blessings ~ Wendy
So glad you stopped by, Wendy.
Great post! And this is so true — > “I realize that the best love I can provide to my friends is to love myself first.”
Hola chica! Thanks so much for stopping by. Iyanla Vanzant once said it best, “Vote for you.” Many of us are not sure how to do that.
You’re welcome!
That’s a great quote! I love Iyanla Vanzant!!
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What a lovely post and a great reminder. Being our own cheerleader is hard for so many of us. I am new here and will definitely be reading more. Your writing seems to give voice to what some of us are thinking but don’t always say out loud. It’s a great conversation
Yes we do, don’t we?! Thanks so much for stopping by.
That was truly thought-provoking and practical. It reminds me of a friend—a big, burly man—cried tears of joy for us. We announced that we had purchased a rental property and he was overcome with positive emotions for us. You should have seen that grown man cry. Thanks for the reminder. I’m going to look for someone to empower today!
That’s wonderful…that starts the spirit of giving. Imagine if everyone made it a point to empower just one person everyday…how powerful that would be. Thanks so much for stopping by.
My pleasure.
I love this post — it’s so true. Feeding ourselves self-love fills us up to love the world and to serve with open hearts and minds.
thanks!
Louise — thanks so much for stopping by!
So true … and, alas, difficult at times. We all need our daily cups of self love, that’s for sure.