The Journey to Self Discovery

We've all had that one someone that always criticized everything that you've did or not even to give you positive reinforcement.  Both wear away at your self-worth and self-esteem.    N egative criticism does not only hurt emotionally but can also hurt your interests, or about what you are interested in… Most negative criticisms are not even true.  They are often more of a first response by, people who don't really know about your situation. Even if the criticism is technically true, it’s not worth paying attention to. John Maxwell said that life is 10% of what happens to me, and 90% of how I react to it. Negative criticism calls attention to what we may or may not be weak at. If someone was to tell me that I will never be a great writer because I can't spell. I would have to say… “yes”, it's true that I can't spell. But that’s what spell check is for.  And I may never be the best writer out there, but as long...

  I noticed something within myself coming out through my words and, as you know, words are definitely power. I found myself relinquishing my power negatively by not acknowledging my abilities. Early on in the day, I had posted an encouraging quote like I always did, admonishing others in their walk in life. People were giving me admonishments for all I had done for the community of survivors, and I immediately thought I was not worthy. I responded finally by saying, "No,  WE are great!"   Looking back, I said, damn how damaging! I had spent so much of my life feeling inadequate, forgetting all the amazing things I had done. It was like a gaping hole in the middle of me, never satisfied. I couldn't appreciate a compliment because my no self-esteem worked against my memory and acceptance of my reality. I was always trying to measure up to someone or something that didn't exist. But then I realized something: we are all kingdoms. Our bodies, our minds, our souls,...