We all love to receive praise from outside ourselves—Adore those compliments.
On the way to attracting those positive comments, we get to stretch into loving ourselves. We show compassion to others who are doing the best whether they compliment us or not.
Aware in Relationship
Susan enjoyed a good relationship with her brother, Ralph. They could enjoy passionate discussions involving their spirituality, inner struggles and discoveries. Susan was older and had been earnest in her pursuit of growth over many years. At times R was able to use something Susan said or did for his growing edification.
Much of the time Susan listened to Ralph share about his inner process, his awareness and frustrations. To stay in harmony with him, she listened and appreciated him, cheering him on when she noticed progress. S put less focus on reporting on her story to him.
Truth be told, Susan noticed in her own heart she longed for her brother’s appreciation of her. Though R was kind to her, mostly he told his story.
Susan Response
Susan knew to work inside herself. A number of S’s spiritual leaders recommend putting primary focus on our individual connection with Source Energy, our own Divine Spark, that inner guidance. Therefore, this star turned to recognizing her own value. True enough, S found more and more satisfaction on self-appreciation.
Insight
Insight
Over many years this heroine felt better and better about herself, taking responsibility for her own self esteem. S accepted and appreciated her dear brother on his path.
One day Susan realized that if Ralph did not value himself, he could not love her in the way she dreamed. “Oh it’s nothing personal,” said our dear protagonist, “It has nothing to do with me.”
Gratification
Years flowed by and both parties grew and prospered. One year including in the Christmas box was a note from Ralph. That sibling wrote a giant handful of appreciations of his sister. Susan read the missive and wept. This brother now articulated many positive attributes and things Susan had longed to hear for years.
Soon afterwards he reacted to the book she had sent him A Story Waiting to Pierce You[1]. R had had a break through: he realized the preeminence of each moment and the beauty he can see there. That’s all he has to do.
Resolution
Susan had wanted praise from outside herself. This dear woman had developed the power to let this love in, to feel she is precious, loveable and with enormous value.
As Ralph felt his own value, he could then honor it in her.
Take Away:
Allow our own dear self to feel the outpouring of love from Source Connection.
Love the others wherever they are in their process of unfolding.
Allow Source Energy to Do Its Magic.
Comments or Questions? Stories of Fostering Self Love? The author welcomes your input.
About the Author
Janet Pearlman is a spiritual teacher, counselor, healer and artist. These posts demonstrate everyday applications of the path to greater self knowledge and mastery. Opportunities for greater empowerment abound in the moments of our lives. As we all go for operating from a centered and loving space, we are creating a world where peace can prevail. In her forty-six year journey of self-discovery, Janet has deeply studied the teachings of Abraham-Hicks, Ernest Holmes, Inayat Khan and more. Janet offers individual sessions by phone and in person. Please contact her at jpearl555@earthink.net to arrange an appointment.
[1] Kingsley, Peter, A Story Waiting to Pierce You (The Golden Sufi Center, 2010)