I don’t know when the bullying began.  To be honest, I don’t remember not picking on her.  I have called her fat, ugly, and disgusting.   I have told her she was a horrible mother, wife, and friend. I have told her she was a disappointment and embarrassment to her parents and family.  I have pointed out her of sins; reminding her over and over of her failures.

Horrible, isn’t it?  Why would I treat any woman like this?  Especially when that woman is me.  I am amazed at how easy it is for me to overlook other’s short comings, but I will continue to point out each of mine.  I can see beauty in each of my friends, but I find the ugly in me.  Why do I bully myself like this?  Why is it that I love my family and friends with passion and grace and gentleness, and yet, I continue to pick on myself?  How can I call myself a lover of people if I can’t love myself?

So I am standing up to the bully in my mind. I am demanding her to stop.  I will be gentle with my thoughts.  I will be kind to my heart.  I will be loving to my soul.   I want to become a woman who loves herself, so that she can love others better.

To get started, I wrote myself a Valentine’s day note.  I reminded myself of my strengths.  I encouraged my gifts.  I applauded my accomplishments.  This year, I encourage you to do the same.  Let’s be people that are as gentle to our own souls as we are with other’s.  Let’s be just as graceful with our shortcomings as we are with other’s.  When we say we love people, let’s include ourself.

To read more about love, go to Susan’s blog and then continue around the circle.