Words

We are working on making a few changes around our house. We are changing the way we think, and we are changing the way we speak. Words are powerful, and I truly believe that we become what we think about. I started off with my today statements at the beginning of this year to help me focus on living in the moment each and every day. I have to admit that narrowing down my priority for the day and putting it into words has been difficult. Some days it is just plain hard, but it has also been very rewarding. It has helped me to slow down and stop thinking two to three steps ahead so that I can enjoy the present. It has been a challenge I have enjoyed. Several weeks ago I had a discussion with Seej. She has been struggling, and it has been painful for me to watch her. I hate to see her beat herself up the way that she does, and so we implemented a plan for her. She is writing down one thing she likes about herself every day in her own little notebook. She wasn't sure that this would be effective in helping her to realize that perfection isn't necessary for her to love who she is. It was very difficult in the beginning, but it is becoming easier and she is actually starting to enjoy it. It is also making a difference. She is slowly letting go of the pressure she puts on herself, and she is having fun. It feels good to watch her discover the beauty of who she is. It feels good to see her recognize her own talents and gifts, and it feels good to witness her learn about her value. It also sets a standard for me. I have to remind myself to take the boxing gloves off and give myself a break once in a while too, and watching Seej go through this experience has helped me to do that. I have had a rough few weeks. I have struggled with my own sense of self-worth. I have questioned if who I am is good enough. It has been painful, but just like I see the value of Seej, I know that others see that in me as well, and in the end I need to see it in myself. I am reminded of that by so many people through their actions, and their words. Their powerful words mean so much to me, and I hope my words can carry that same power for someone else. So, in this house we are all learning together that each one of us does indeed have value. We're also learning that it's a good thing that we have each other to remind us of that sometimes. It's one more reason I'm so grateful we have each other.

"Most of the shadows of this life come from standing in one's own sunshine." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

(This image was taken for MCP Actions 52 Week project. The theme was words, and you can see it featured on their site here).