Oh how this resonates with me. Never once do I remember loving my body or even liking it. As the daughter of a stereotypical 1950s mom, physical appearance was the most important about me. Both my parents emphasized how I looked was how people would see me and think about me. I was meant to conform to societal beauty norms so could “catch” a man and repeat my parent’s way of life (who in their right mind wants to catch someone? Shouldn’t they want to love you for yourself? Apparently not.). The drum beat voice in my head constantly repeats “you are not skinny enough; your hair is too wild; your lips are too thin; don’t ever smile and keep you face still so you won’t get wrinkles; smile more, you look grumpy; and the list goes on. Even today in my older years I hear the drum beat voice. Affirmations are fine and good, but often they are not loud enough to overcome so many many years of self-criticism. The beauty of my meditation practice has made me aware of the craziness inside my head and given me the ability to recognize it, accept it, and gently let it pass. Not always, but the recognition is there. I so appreciate and am grateful for your teachings and guidance. Without a teacher I might be floundering around thinking I am meditating when I’m only repeating empty words and wondering why they are not effective.
Thank you Cyndi for sharing your conversations and communications with Louise Hay. It is always wonderful to know we are not alone when we hear that others struggle with the concept of being "nice to ourselves". We can spread the love to others, & do so, but turning those feelings inward is difficult at best.
And a great reminder as to the differences between meditations, and affirmations, both of which are useful and valuable, especially the more we engage.
Lastly to anyone who has not yet read your book "May I Be Happy", I would say do so at your earliest opportunity. It will open your eyes, but all in a good way!
Thank you again Cyndi for sharing your thoughts with all of us, it is appreciated!!
Oh how this resonates with me. Never once do I remember loving my body or even liking it. As the daughter of a stereotypical 1950s mom, physical appearance was the most important about me. Both my parents emphasized how I looked was how people would see me and think about me. I was meant to conform to societal beauty norms so could “catch” a man and repeat my parent’s way of life (who in their right mind wants to catch someone? Shouldn’t they want to love you for yourself? Apparently not.). The drum beat voice in my head constantly repeats “you are not skinny enough; your hair is too wild; your lips are too thin; don’t ever smile and keep you face still so you won’t get wrinkles; smile more, you look grumpy; and the list goes on. Even today in my older years I hear the drum beat voice. Affirmations are fine and good, but often they are not loud enough to overcome so many many years of self-criticism. The beauty of my meditation practice has made me aware of the craziness inside my head and given me the ability to recognize it, accept it, and gently let it pass. Not always, but the recognition is there. I so appreciate and am grateful for your teachings and guidance. Without a teacher I might be floundering around thinking I am meditating when I’m only repeating empty words and wondering why they are not effective.
Thank you, Cyndi.
Agreed. Affirmations are not always loud enough!
Thank you Cyndi for sharing your conversations and communications with Louise Hay. It is always wonderful to know we are not alone when we hear that others struggle with the concept of being "nice to ourselves". We can spread the love to others, & do so, but turning those feelings inward is difficult at best.
And a great reminder as to the differences between meditations, and affirmations, both of which are useful and valuable, especially the more we engage.
Lastly to anyone who has not yet read your book "May I Be Happy", I would say do so at your earliest opportunity. It will open your eyes, but all in a good way!
Thank you again Cyndi for sharing your thoughts with all of us, it is appreciated!!
Kelly
Thank you, Kelly for all you have stated so well.