I wrote this for someone special, who has been held back for far too long.
There is a feeling of peace and empowerment that has overtaken me. I know that events will unfold over which I have no control, nor do I desire such control, I know I am changing, for the better; that I will continue to change, for me. It’s time for me; it is now my time to be.
The last 2 years have been the most unusual in my life. I have learned, again, what is important and what is not. I understand now that I am the most important person in my own life, that I need to be selfish (in a strict Webster meaning) with my life. I am learning to say no. Not in anger, not in frustration, but simply no. While I continue to have concern, respect and a degree of joint responsibility to and for those around me, no one else is in control my life’s direction, or my life’s purpose, any longer. I have but a short time (in the grand scheme) to be here, and I need to place myself before all others, to accomplish my goals. And those goals are mine, chosen by me, for my benefit; they are what I need to do.
I will choose, now, to do what is best for me, what is in my overall best interest. Do not expect me to refute myself for your uses, or your benefit. Expect me instead, to do what I can that is good for me, and perhaps therefore all of us; bearing in mind that I am of value to myself, and that I will no longer deny or degrade my own value for your, or any other persons', needs, wants, or desires.
This is not a narcissistic point of view; rather it is a point of view that allows me to uphold my self as a person of good, of value, and in control of myself. I am not going to use that view to cause undue suffering, harm or hurt, but I am not afraid any longer to exercise my ability to control my life, my work, and my dreams.
In making this statement, I acknowledge and accept that you have or may make a similar statement of your own design, which I respect; as I ask you to respect my words here given. If we choose to travel together, so be it; if our paths separate, know I wish you the best in your journey, and I accept your best wishes for mine.
Wow, sounds like me. Anyone I know?
ReplyDeleteLoving ones self is good but how about love and commitment to ones relationships?
ReplyDeleteNo, Ringo, I don’t think you have ever met this person!
ReplyDeleteBurley Woman, thanks for the response! I agree that relationships and commitments deserve ongoing care, respect, work, and consideration. My particular attention is called to situations where someone “demands” love or respect from another; for example making a demand that I love and respect a person who molested one of my children or grandchildren. That was the driving point of this post.
Relationships involve mutual respect. Failure to respect the other in a relationship or placing unrealistic demands on them is vitriolic and parasitic. I would hope that everyone loves themselves enough, and values themselves enough, to be a member of a symbiotic relationship. Both members have individual needs, and need to care for themselves, but in doing so it should not negatively affect the other person. If this is the case, the relationship should be severed.
ReplyDelete