Gratitude for Yourself

A Message for Valentine's Day or Any Time At All

Especially in this season of the heart, we let others know we care about them. Certainly when someone helps us out, we express our gratitude for what they do. The phrase, “I appreciate you,” has become widely used these days, expressing gratitude for who people are as well as what they do.

This is very important, as we all need to know that who we are matters. We could do a lot more appreciating, to keep the flow of recognition and connection going strong. Everyone needs recognition, although we are often programmed not to give, ask for, or accept positive feedback.

While our messages of appreciation nurture others’ healthy self-esteem and strong relationships, how often do we remember to appreciate ourselves? Today in the middle of a blustery winter storm, I am grateful to myself for having collected wood for the woodstove when it wasn’t raining yet. I’m glad that I got this computer fixed yesterday and that I have backup systems in case the power goes out. More generally, I appreciate that I stick faithfully to my daily practices, including this writing.

Those are things I’ve done – and there are many more, like writing a book, building a business, traveling to many countries, building friendships with wonderful people. I appreciate that I took advantage of many personal growth experiences throughout my life so that I can feel a lot of peace and joy even when I am also sad or worried about the world around me.

Do you notice what you have done well? All your successes, whether easy or against the odds? Do you give yourself credit for the contributions you make to others? Do you appreciate what you have learned in this lifetime, how you live your values, the adventures you’ve had? And maybe how you pulled yourself out of the doldrums, got re-motivated, and stepped forward after you didn’t think you could?

And now to the heart of the heart: Loving and being grateful for who you are, no matter what you do. I enjoy my own company. Do you enjoy yours? I like being myself, and most of the time I like how I am with other people.

There were times earlier in my life when I wasn’t sure I had made the right choice, to come into this life where maybe I didn’t belong. As if I knew how we “choose” our lives! I am so grateful for the life that I’m blessed with. That has definitely increased through the years, in tandem with my ability to love who I am.

Here’s the real kicker, and what I want you to consider: are you letting yourself RECEIVE the love from yourself and from others? Is it OK to be loved for who you are? The more you will give yourself permission to receive, with nothing owed back, the more fully others will be able to receive from you. Really!!

I’m writing this the day before Valentine’s Day. I hope you have a moment to picture yourself as the beautiful person you are, the child within, the strength you’ve grown into, the care that you give and receive. Send yourself a loving smile, kind words, and a big hug. I’m lighting the fire in the woodstove to keep us warm through the storm.

With love, Lucy