The greatest thing in the world
is to know how to belong to oneself.
Michel de Montaigne
There were many triggers going off within me when I first read this quote. As an unattended child, I believed the only person I really belonged to was me ... and that was rather frightening as I was not sure I liked my self all that much.
Over the years, I longed for someone to be responsible for me or to take care of me. When I did find someone to belong to, he did such a great job I resented being dominated and not having free thought or will.
Finally retrieving parts of my self that had fallen into others dominion, I attempted to become what I thought others needed me to be so that I could finally belong. I kept giving and giving until there was nothing left to give.
It has taken years for me to love the 'self' within me, and to see I was worthy of respect and attention. The truth is I really like myself now that I have accepted all the sharp edges and weakened floor boards. I am still 'under construction', if you will, but I am pleased with the progress and results. I am truly grateful to finally belong to me!
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