Affirmation

Reflected Beauty

“It is an absolute human certainty that no one can know his own beauty or perceive a sense of his own worth until it has been reflected back to him in the mirror of another loving, caring human being.”

John Joseph Powell (The Secret of Staying in Love)

Do you ever devalue yourself? Most of us do at one time or another either because we feel like a failure, or because we're afraid of being perceived as arrogant if we state our own worth. When we are taught that humility is a virtue, a proverb pounded into my girl-psyche all of my growing up years, it's very hard to think of oneself as valuable. Also, when we listen to people who promote themselves in a braggadocios manner, we are appalled and repelled. We don't want to be like that! But there must be a happy medium here somewhere.

The Jungians would say that it's the blessing given by a father to his child that makes the difference in whether that child feels worthy and confident. If you are a father, remember that—let your children know how much you love them, and also how much you value them as human beings. Point out their strengths and their personality traits that you like most. Children need to hear that, especially if you are also pointing out something you don't like. Most humans are very sensitive to harsh criticism. We can hear one thousand affirmations regarding our value, but if there is one criticism, that's where our focus will land.

It is the satisfying of this need we have to be recognized and valued that leads us to stability and peace of mind. We can't do it alone. We need the mirror of another person's love and caring to come to a sense of our own worth. Let's remember that today—affirm the people you come in contact with. And, while you're at it, express a little appreciation for yourself, too.

                                                                 In the Spirit,

                                                                    Jane