By Stephanie DeFazio
For the first time in our lives, we have more time to go deep to figure out who we are and to imagine how much more resilient we will become after this year. We have our strengths, weaknesses, hobbies, interests, and our unique personalities. Although both our strengths and our weaknesses will be put to the test during the pandemic, and we don't know how soon we can all be together again, the one thing that remains constant is our own uniqueness, our inner being.
If you have struggled with confidence and embracing yourself, now is the time to take those baby steps into the spotlight and belt out your self-love anthem! This practice of self-love is something you will be doing pretty much forever. It's never easy, and you're going to have good and bad days, but it's so worth it to give it a try. And, who knows what will come of it!
Look out 'cause here I come And I'm marching on to the beat I drum I'm not scared to be seen I make no apologies, this is me.
-This is Me, song by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul
There's so much vulnerability that comes from self-love and acceptance. We are making a choice to be seen and accept where we are at on our journey. From this vulnerability comes an incredible surge from deep within that has the power to propel us forward to whatever we desire. Yes, it's difficult to try to imagine what's coming next as we are still at a standstill, but at least we can start by showing ourselves some love and discovering our own special anthem.
What's your anthem? The thing that's most important about selecting your own anthem is that it honestly represents you and your journey so far. It doesn't have to be one that is popular with many others. Find one that's uniquely you and that will fill you with immense joy as you continue to discover who you are.
Be with those who help your being. Don't sit with indifferent people, whose breath comes cold out of their mouths.
-from the poem, Be With Those Who Help Your Being, by Mewlana Jalaluddin Rumi
Once you select your anthem, make sure your loved ones are still supporting you in this personal discovery. Belting out your anthem is so much better when your loved ones can stand with you and sing along as your ensemble, in honor of your self-love! Rumi, 13th-century Persian poet, jurist, theologian, and Sufi mystic, seemed to have a deep understanding of rounding up this ensemble of people who fully support and encourage you, who "help your being." He strongly emphasizes to not "sit with indifferent people" who don't believe in you. So, as you continue with your anthem on your self-love journey, let go of those who are no longer contributing to your highest good.
If you're seeking ways to step out of the shadows and embrace more self-love, the Soul Studio has some wonderful offerings this month, including Intuitive Collage Haiga and Counteract Your Inner Critic in a Crisis. Check them all out here.
