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Friday, January 11, 2008

It's Okay to be Selfish

Throughout my blog I have discussed having a problem with putting myself first. It has always been easier to focus on somebody else's needs, wants, and desires than mine. Sometimes I fall back into this black hole without realizing it, and thankfully this hasn't happened for quite some time.

On January 3rd, I posted about a decision I have to make concerning a job up in Boston. I still have not made any decisions, but will by the end of the weekend. I have been praying, reflecting, and reading the Bible to get some clarity. Amidst all this, a verse has popped off the page for other reasons.
"He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers." (Proverbs 19:8, NIV)
The Bible notes for this verse are quite interesting as well:
"Is it good to love yourself? Yes, when your soul is at stake! This proverb does not condone the self-centered person who loves and protects his or her selfish interests and will do anything to serve them. Instead it encourages those who really care about themselves to seek wisdom."

And that is what I will continue to do in this lifestyle change: to expand my knowledge base so that I don't make the same mistakes. Maybe after that, I can expand and help others too.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

While giving to others is a virtue, you can't draw water from an empty well. You have to refill yourself as well.

Putting myself first has always been an issue with me, until I started realizing that I couldn't give my best until I could BE my best. I still have moments when I feel those twinges of guilt, but also have a lot of joy in knowing I have more to offer.

Hanlie said...

It is certainly true that we treat others much better than we treat ourselves... I've been learning how to really love and care for myself and it's quite a journey. You get rid of so much baggage along the way, but it's really worth it! I think there will always be more to learn, but we don't have to be perfect to be an inspiration and help to others.

You seem to be tackling this decision in a good way, so I'm sure whatever you decide will be the right thing. Good luck!

Heather said...

I also have that problem...I think its getting better now that I have had to focus on myself and put my needs before others in order to lose weight. you will get to that point though, and dont worry about making mistakes, thats part of life.