Valued Sense of Self

"Over the years, I have come to realize that the 

greatest trap in our life is not success, popularity or power,

 but self-rejection."
Henri J.M. Nouwen

Confidence and imagination flourish with toddling children.  They come to a stand still when they encounter an ant or stare stock still at the butterfly zipping by.  Nothing is more important to them than the present moment.  There is a clear intention to not miss one tiny element of the world surrounding them.

With the entrance of judgment and criticism, they begin to struggle with the absence of personal joy.  The focus moves from self-fulfilled moments towards the outside world. They create skills to impress others and move further away from the valued sense of self.

Rejection and abandonment convince them of their worthlessness.  In this dark space, they begin to hear their soul calling to them.  On their journey, they process lessons and release outside influence.  Their parts begin to create a fullness where they once again can appreciate every element of the world.  They get out of their own way and gently progress and prosper.