Dearest Darling Friends,

Throughout our early lives, we were taught how to read, write, manipulate, calculate, build, destroy, theorize, study and analyze life.

We were taught how to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

We were also taught what was acceptable and unacceptable to others and society at large is MORE important than our sense of right and wrong.

Most of us had one crucial part of our education neglected: self-love.

As a child,

• I cannot recall being taught the value of loving myself.
• I cannot recall anyone sharing with me the importance of setting healthy boundaries
• ⁠I cannot recall knowing how to say “no” and “yes” when I really needed to
• I cannot recall learning how to take care of myself when under peer pressure.
• I cannot recall being strong when I have failed
• I cannot recall believing in myself when others had doubts on me

What about you?

If you were raised in a culture and society similar to my own, you were probably taught to ‘put others before yourself’ and not give much consideration to your own needs. This was true even if others were unfair and bullies.

Self-denial and self-sacrifice were two main values that was hammered till it became a habit. We were told that only then will we be a ‘worthy human being’.

Unfortunately, this glorified self-imposed martyr kind of life had no real understanding of ‘self love’ or ‘self care’. Seeking validation became the name of the game. Absence of social validation meant something is NOT OK with ME.

When we don’t learn how to love ourselves, depression, bitterness, anxiety, resentment, isolation and great sadness are always lurking just around the corner.

To live a life of joy, to walk a path with heart, learning to self-love is the beginning.

It’s not late yet. Heal our own wounds and become a doctor to your own Soul. Live with self-love!

With love, prayers and best wishes,