It IS about You Too!

How many times have you been told that your journey is not at all about you, that it is about the people you serve? Well, I may stir up some mess, but I am going to be a little contradictory here, and kindly beg to differ. Now, let's make no mistake about it, we were all put on this earth to serve others, and I am in no way suggesting otherwise. HOWEVER, how do we serve from a healthy and whole place, if we don't make it about ourselves first?

How do we give others our best selves if we don't focus on becoming just that? When we share our life experiences, become totally transparent at the risk of being labeled conceited and boastful, aren't we showing the world all of US? What about the skin we put in, the falls and hard knocks we take, and the bumps and bruises we endure along the way? Should we not nurture ourselves and embrace our bounce back power first, and then show others it can be done? Should we not put overcoming, giving ourselves the focus that is needed for healing before we direct our attention elsewhere?

I am in no way saying it is okay to use your accomplishments or bounce backs to glorify yourself, to make others feel bad, or shout to the world, "Look at me. I am great and you are not!" Boasting and bragging to stroke your own ego and make yourself feel good is a sign of insecurity and, if this is you, some focus needs to be put on that. However, your journey IS about you in part, and you ARE the most important piece in it, second to God. Allow no one to tell you otherwise. Allow no one to convince you to stop sharing what God has brought you through, or from what you have bounced back. If they confuse your heartfelt testimonies for boasting and self-serving, and it is not truthful, that is their problem not yours.

The fact of the matter is there is no way to separate you from your purpose and make it all about someone else. While serving others with your gifts, talents and knowledge is of utmost importance, you must serve yourself to serve others. Simply said, when you put yourself first you are far better able to make a bigger impact on this earth.