I came across this quote on Pinterest and it seemed to fit so well with my motto for 2014.
I've been focusing a lot of my study, meditation, and prayer around this goal of mine to let go of my pride and humble myself before the Lord instead of seeking approval from the people around me. This quote is a huge step toward that goal.
The thing that struck me the most about this quote is how much power I can give to those that don't truly know or care about me, or even care to know me. Why are those the people that can shake my self esteem? Why do I even care what they think about me? Why do I spend any time trying to explain or prove myself to them that are committed to misunderstanding me? When put this way, it really doesn't make any sense why I would waste any time doing that.
I've been pondering this question for many years. There have been a few instances where I've really struggled with knowing that some one's perception of me isn't really who I am, or knowing that someone doesn't like me based on things they think they know about me. I usually stress over the idea that if they really knew me, or gave me a chance to show them who I really am, then they would in fact like me and know that I'm a good person. And I always come to the same conclusion - why do I care what they think anyway?
You see, I have a hard time knowing that someone doesn't like me and just letting that go. It's really hard for me. I feel like if someone doesn't like me that means that I'm doing something wrong, or that I've offended that person, or that I'm not a good person, and that I need to change. I've been working a lot on this, because there is no possible way to please everyone and the last thing I want to be is someone who changes just to please the people around me. That is not the definition of confidence or integrity and it is not putting God's approval above the approval of others.
This quote was a piece of clarity for me. It's put so simply.
It is a waste of time (and energy) trying to explain myself, or to prove myself to people that don't even care to understand me. And if I am letting go of the approval of others, than I need to stop trying to explain myself. Because they're gonna think what they wanna think and I just gotta do what I gotta do - be myself.
Just thinking of letting this go feels so very liberating.
It's an important step on this journey my motto is taking me on.
I'm excited about what I'm learning and hope that I am growing from the process.
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Thanks for stopping by!
5 comments:
I think I re-pinned the quote from you & this post basically says everything I feel in my heart. Thank you
Megan, I went to a conference break out session titled "What you think of me is none of my business." Isn't that a wonderful concept?
Yes! I love that!
I really love you. Reminders of how life should be is the most refreshing feeling. Sometimes I forget who I am, especially each time I move and am surrounded by new people. But then this inspiring moments bring you back.
Love the quote and this post! I have a hard time accepting others not liking me too, especially when its "family". Still struggling with this but really dont want to care. Hard. Ps "whatever" is the word I have to type below. I think it fits!
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