list 43 things I like about myself

It’s my dad’s birthday today so this seems an appropriate day to add this fact to my list.

Of course I love my children; that’s easy.

But I also love the rest of my family and that hasn’t been so easy. I am very different to them. At times I’ve felt misunderstood and under-appreciated; I’ve sensed an undercurrent of bemusement or criticism because I see life differently. Sometimes it’s been hurtful; sometimes it’s made me angry.

This morning I was chatting to Dad on the telephone, wishing him a happy birthday and so on and the subject of my studying came up. I know they can’t make sense of it. I know it seems totally bizarre to them that I’m doing these things now: ”...at your time of life...?” (I’m not THAT old!) I could hear what he was thinking :)

But never for a moment have I thought that my parents don’t love and care about me. They may struggle to understand me and they may disapprove at times but they’ve always been supportive.

And as time has passed I’ve learned to appreciate their gifts more and more. I love them for what they have given me, and no longer blame them for the things that were beyond their ability to give. I love them for who they are – it is at last unconditional.

Similarly with my sisters – each very different to me. But we are a very strong unit and we’ll be there like a shot if ever we’re needed.

So – yes – I LOVE MY FAMILY! My children, my parents, my sisters, my nephews, my niece …. (and of course, B – which goes without saying)

I am proud of our cumulative strength and mutual bond. I am proud that we love each other despite our differences and no matter what we do.

14. I take enormous pleasure from simple things :)

Everyone has the right to their own point of view – and the right to be heard.

I am also very strong.

It is possible to be strong and naive ….

(... for naive read ‘trusting’)

Physically I’m a hopeless case of course – total non-starter,
but emotionally – psychologically – I’m up there!

:)

You just have to be open and be prepared to look for it sometimes.

When people are angry or rude or aggressive it’s because they’re protecting that vulnerable part of themselves. Or maybe they’re just having a bad day. It doesn’t make them a bad person.

People have told me I’m too naive and trusting when I say things like this. I don’t care. I just wonder what the effect might be if we all looked for the good…

Other things have taken precedence. But I have been thinking about this goal quite a lot. Initially it was very much at the front of my mind and I was pleasantly surprised at the change in my attitude towards myself. I’m thinking that I should write something more regularly to keep up that feelgood factor :) Perhaps one thing at a time to stretch it out a little …

6. People and relationships are central to me. Connection is everything.
7. I can always laugh at myself.
8. I adore books: I love the look, the smell, the feel as well as the content.
9. I analyse. (This would also appear on a list of things I don’t like about myself.)
10. I know that life is beautiful!

Okay – 5 things for today in no particular order:

1. I’m tall
2. Compassionate
3. Loyal & supportive
4. I’m honest
5. I admit to mistakes and learn from them

That’s enough for today :)

I’m giving myself lots of things to do and/or improve upon. Actually I’m really not that bad; in fact some people think I’m quite nice as I am ;)

So to redress the balance a little I’m adding a “celebrate me” goal.

Now …. to think of some things that I like about me …............. ..............ummmmmmm…....................................................scratches head ….............................................. chews pencil (metaphorically speaking) ......................................... there MUST be something ......... ;)

People say I’m funny. I guess it’s partly because I’m not embarrased to talk about taboo subjects, like tampons in front of guys, fart jokes, etc. I’m funny when I’m comfortable with people & can be myself. If not, then I’m a bit shy & stiff, but I’m usually comfortable with most ppl even when I first meet them. Which leads to #4…

4. Social – I love hanging out, meeting new people, can make conversation with anyone (unless its a huge crush lol), and have a good time.