Dance Steps

"You do not need to be loved,

not at the cost of your self.

The single relationship

that is truly

central and crucial

in a life is the relationship

to the self.

Of all the people

you will know

in a lifetime,

you are the only one

you will never lose.

Jo Coudert

Advice from a Failure

We spend years learning from the reflection of peers, rather than trusting in what we know to be true about our core value. Where is the creative mentor offering unbiassed support?  How is it we are not brought up loving our sweet little selves?  Why are we so early groomed for the intentions of others.

When we are aware of our personal weaknesses and  maintain equal emphasis on our strengths.   we reduce the tendency to feel as though we need to hide who we really are.  With acceptance, we overcome the habit of repressing feelings or wearing a variety of masks.  When we learn to embrace both sides of our selves, we create a stronger foundation for development.

Once we are comfortable with who we truly are, by recognizing all parts of the self, we can engage in friendships without giving ourselves away.  We will not feel the pressure to please at all costs or tolerate an imbalanced relationship where one person dominates the other.  

We may play numerous roles, but this is part of the dance of life.  We can be flexible and share, but never deplete ourselves for the sake of another.  We need to take best care of our selves so we may be both mentally and physically strong enough to participate with others.  When we extend too much of ourselves by not having good boundaries, we become diminished and depressed.  For these reasons, we must take tender care of our authentic self and the blessings we bring into this world.