The Beauty of Everyday

People are always hesitant to admit their flaws or weaknesses.

Maybe it is our animal instinct. Maybe it feels like exposing your throat to a predator that will rip it out.

It’s self-preservation to never show your cards, to never let anyone know how they can hurt you.

I’d like to think I have evolved past letting my weaknesses control me, but probably not. There will always be a trigger hidden somewhere I forgot to look when I was fortifying my heart, putting on all the armor that I wear.

But I digress slightly. There are so many people I admire; and an unfortunate byproduct of that admiration is that I put them on a pedestal, seeing only the good and blind to the negative qualities.

But really, I am amazed by some people. They walk around not realizing how awesome they are.

We live among superheroes and no one is freaking out like they just met a celebrity, that seems weird to me.

I mean… teachers and first responders… just to name a few.

I know a lady who is both and I love her more than words can say.

People who dedicate their lives and effort to improving their corner of the world in some way… we are lucky to bear witness to their awesomeness. People who give quietly without any expectation of recognition… what beautiful souls.

I feel it is important to tell people when you see something in them that is truly wonderful; but people can only take so much positive feedback about themselves.

What is it about us that we are so damaged we don’t let the light in? We marinate in the darkness of our negative self image and pick at the scabs of our self loathing.

And when someone comes along to tell us differently, we crown them a weirdo and run away.

Why not hear about the good parts of you from someone who noticed?

Historically, I seek out the toxic people who are quick to point out my shortcomings, but never admit if I do anything right. Sometimes it is necessary to remove negative people from your life, no fighting, no hate, just distance and prayer. You can love someone but protect yourself from damage. If it risks your mental health, it is too steep of a price.

As of late, I’ve surrounded myself with a new group of people who are positive and uplifting. It feels weird to let the light in, but also cathartic.

I highly recommend giving yourself some grace, listening to the positive feedback, and loving yourself and all your flaws and strengths. You are beautifully and wonderfully made.

As I tell my daughter when she says something bad about herself, “You are perfect, because God made you, and God doesn’t make mistakes.”

So today, don’t check the comment section, leave the keyboard warriors to beat up on someone else, cut out the negativity like a cancer, pull the weeds out of your garden, and tell the person in the mirror, “I love you and you are doing your best.”