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Thursday 26 March 2015

Thankful Thursday - Myself

Self praise is difficult for me. I struggle -  as many do - with my self esteem. So, it's about time that I thought about myself and what about me I am grateful for. It has taken a lot of thought, but I've managed to select 5 things about myself that make me thankful.

1: My body conceived, grew and birthed two beautiful little girls. If I'd had to write this 5 years ago, I would have been unable to be feel grateful for my body. I hated it. Passionately. I considered myself ugly and my body to be a failure. Becoming a mother gave me a whole new view. How could my body be worthless when it could produce such marvels? When it could stretch and mould and contract in such amazing ways? When it could accomodate a growing baby and then push it out into the world? Women become mothers every day. It's hardly a rarity. I'm not unique. And yet, the miracle of pregnancy and childbirth was - for me - not just the new lives blossoming, but the realisation that, despite appearances to the contrary, I really am "fearfully and wonderfully made!"

2: I am organised. I like knowing what's happening, when and where, and this desire enables us to be much less stressed. There isn't so much running around at the last minute as there would be if I wasn't so good at organising. Oh, there's always some panic as we try to get out of the house, but we have two children now - they're not organised. Yet!

3: I get passionate about things I believe are important. I'm thankful for my passion and eagerness because there are changes that need to be made in the world. We are called to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves," and that's a gift I have in abundance. My passion has helped a good number of people. Friends and aquaintances have thanked me for articles I've shared and advice I've given; others have asked me for help for themselves or their friends, because they know my passions have led to knowledge that can assist. I'm so grateful that I can be passionate, because I'm making a difference, even if it's only in my tiny corner of the world.

4: I make really delicious cakes. Seriously. I'm my own worst critic, and my decoration is never at the high standard I aim for, but the cakes? They taste amazing. I can't even eat shop bought cakes now, because my own are a million times tastier. Shop bought cakes taste bland to me, with artificial flavours and strange textures. I'm proud of my ability to make great tasting cakes, even if people are running away from sugar these days. I'm hoping that my delicious cakes will be a great way of keeping my kids and their friends hanging around our house!

5: I have a way with language. I'm capable of being straight to the point and diplomatic at the same time. I know how to use big words correctly. I have always been a big reader, and that has given me a large vocabulary. I love that I can influence others with what I can say and write. I love writing letters to my MP, writing blogposts, holding my own in discussions, being able to give clear explanations. I'm so grateful for the opportunities my language skills have given me.

There. Not my easiest post ever. But a necessary and important one. It's so hard to think well of myself at times. And I know I'm not the only person in the world who struggles in this way. So it has been hard, yet rewarding, to really look at myself and pick out the things that I grateful for, that make me who I am.

What do you love about yourself?

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2 comments:

  1. Wow this is such a great post considering my last one. I am a great mom too despite all my crazy days! we seem to forget that.

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    Replies
    1. Thank you. It really is important for us to remember our own worth. When I think well of myself, I'm a much better person to be around.

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