Quit complimenting me, I’m a selfish Chick!

I often shudder when I hear people compliment me on being a caring and giving individual. I mean the way the go on I have to do a double take. I have not always been known for doing for others. It’s often hard for me to hear, "you’re such a selfless person". I often look around to see if the utterer of those words is speaking to someone else. They CAN’T be talking to ME. Particularly, because in my past I always did things for recognition. Seldom did I do things solely for the “good of it.” I’m not bragging about my previous way of life. I am simply being transparent about my selfish tinkering. It was the way I was built. I hated sharing food, sharing space, and spending “my time” with other people when it was not convenient for me. I think becoming a mom definitely changed my perspective on life. I am sure losing my mom also played a significant role in how I decided to view relationships and valued the gift of sharing. Time is promised to no man and existence on earth can disappear in the blink of an eye, no exaggeration. I have literally been at a wedding one week of a loved one and the funeral the following week. These experiences helped to shape how I took on each new day, also recognizing I was not promised tomorrow. No smoothie, no exercise, no diet, no 30 day-fix could prevent what God has planned for my life. What will be will be. All we can do is live the best life each day. Today, I still fall short. However, I no longer do things looking for anything in return. There is no glory in that. If God woke me up and looked for something in return every single time- Man! I would be a goner! Again, every day of mine is not one of perfection. If you tell me you have never heard road rage or you never rolled your eyes at the lady holding up the line and you have the kids and you are in a hurry you are LYING TO me or BLESS YOU SAINT, whichever sentiment you deserve!

Now, what I have learned is that there is power in saying NO. You cannot be everything to everybody all of the time. It is okay to take time for your self and be selfish within reason. Otherwise you have given so much of yourself that you have nothing left to give yourself and that is poison, not power and not positive! Giving is good for the soul. When you give you elevate the world, your spirit and you create a positive energy that emanates around you and others pay it forward. It is GOOD KARMA. Do not look for anything in return when you do something good. It is then that you will understand the TRUE power of giving. It is an amazing gift. I am so happy that I did not miss out on it.

Be Blessed!