How are you in accepting compliments?
Although I still tend to cast my eyes downward (shame) and say my "thank you's" quickly, finding myself trying to change the subject, taking the attention off of me; the healing touch of my Heavenly Daddy continues in my heart. Restoring my worthiness a little "thank you" at a time.
I am trying to understand that the compliments that are given to me from someone I care and respect are not only for my benefit. They too get pleasure out of encouraging and complementing.
Oh, how so many times I have hurt and rushed the process of someone trying to be kind to me and "fluff it off as if it was nothing" because of my own securities and fears. Not realizing there are other people's feelings involved besides mine.
Growing up in an environment where I was shamed, put down, judged, criticized, laughed at, called stupid had left damaging effects on who I am. I certainly did not think I deserved anything. Or believed I would amount to much.
We sometimes find it difficult to accept a compliment. We may feel we don't deserve such attention, and point out reasons why the compliment is untrue. When we act this way, we show a lack of love for ourselves.
God teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Yet, before we can love anyone, we must believe we are worthy of the same love. No creature is undeserving of love, God reminds us of that. We can stop hiding behind feelings of unworthiness. There's nothing stopping us but ourselves. Sometimes it takes courage to say thank you when we get a compliment. Let's exercise that courage, and each time we do, we'll find our self-love growing.
When I thank people today, will I have the courage to smile, too?
Hazelden Foundation
A great reminder for us:) We are God's creation and we must be proud and love ourselves!
ReplyDeleteAnd love others too, coz God loves them too!
Hi JBR,
ReplyDeleteI have always been like that too, I think because I don't like the spotlight being on me. If I go into a church or someone's house I would rather be spectator and tend to stay at the back where I feel more comfortable. It doesn't mean that I don't like being with people, I do, and as much as I will talk the hind legs off a donkey if someone starts involving me in a conversation, I do not like attention drawn to myself.
Very good post JBR
ReplyDeleteI can relate to this post very much..taking compliments has always been a hard thing for me as well..,but I too am growing though :) Blessings
ReplyDelete