THE PARADOX OF SELF-LOVE
what if some of us were made to love ourselves by fiercely loving others?
Have you ever felt like you're pouring from an empty cup? Like you're constantly giving to others, but forgetting to fill yourself up first?
I used to think that self-love was all about prioritizing myself first. And while that's still important, I've discovered that there's another side to the story.
The Paradox of Self-Love
Everybody says love yourself first and fiercely but what if some of us were made to love ourselves by fiercely loving others?
What if the act of giving to others is precisely what fills us up? What if loving others isn't draining, but replenishing?
I used to struggle with this concept. I tried all the traditional self-love methods – retreats, meditation, journaling – but they only brought temporary peace.
It wasn't until I started giving to others that I felt a sense of fulfillment and connection. It started with small acts – helping a friend, volunteering, or simply listening with intention.
Each act left me feeling lighter, more connected, and oddly enough, more whole.
There's a profound truth in the idea that our lives gain meaning through connection. When we reach out to help someone else, we create a ripple effect of positivity.
Studies have shown that acts of kindness release feel-good chemicals in the brain, like oxytocin and dopamine. These natural "happiness boosters" create a sense of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
But beyond the science, there's an emotional resonance: when we show love to others, it reflects back on us. It's a reminder that we are valuable, capable, and part of something bigger.
Pouring into others doesn't mean you're emptying yourself, it doesn't mean neglecting your needs or becoming a martyr; it can mean you're creating a cycle of love and purpose that sustains you.
This is it; When you pour love into the world, it sparks a cycle. That love flows outward, but it doesn't leave you empty. Instead, it circles back, reminding you of your own capacity for goodness and connection.
Think about the last time you went out of your way for someone else. How did you feel afterward?
Chances are, you experienced a sense of fulfillment that no amount of self-isolation could replicate.
The paradox of burning to light yourself up makes sense when your flame brings warmth and light to others.
By pouring we are full. We only get light when we light ourselves up even though we burn. It is a paradox but what if that's the only way we can heal. By serving a community where all of the love inside of us can find space.
Healing doesn't have to be solitary; Not everyone heals or finds themselves in the same way, and for some, self-love can indeed be found through loving and serving others.
Love isn't a finite resource; it grows the more we share it. Whether you're offering your time, energy, or presence, remember that giving doesn't diminish you – it enriches you.
So, if you ever feel empty or disconnected, try pouring into others. Write a thoughtful note to a friend, volunteer for a cause you care about, or simply ask someone, "How can I help?"
You might be surprised at how these small acts can ignite a sense of purpose and joy within you.
Have you ever found that helping others helped you reconnect with yourself? Share your stories and insights with me – I'd love to hear from you!
Happy New Month People of my Laive! It’s December!!!!!!
God has been Faithful! Definitely coming back with a recap of 2024, remember this letter The goal is Rebirthing and Reemerging and guess what, We did this year!!!
God helped Me!!!
Until I write to you again, Stay blessed.
Love,
Your Fayvouritegirl.
I think the scripture “Love your neighbor as you love yourself” has been massively misinterpreted to mean…..love yourself first, then after you have finished loving yourself to your desired level of self love, you can now begin to love your neighbor.
When in the real sense, the Bible didn’t stutter when it used “as”, a conjunction to indicate “that something happens during the time when something else is taking place.”
So, ultimately, the level of growth we experience in our love for ourselves should be the extent with which we experience growth in the love for our neighbors.
Simply put, as we grow to love ourselves, it is also evident in the ways we express love to our neighbors.
Loving people in THE RIGHT WAY is fulfilling, it was never intended to drain us of the love we have for ourselves but to replenish it.
Thank you Ore, everything you wrote in this letter are words of truth.❤️