Category: Inspiration

Inspiration

Challenging the Unbalanced Expectations in Relationships

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

In today’s blog, we embark on a candid exploration of the unbalanced expectations placed upon women in marriages or serious relationships. With a touch of anger driven by the desire for change, we delve into a disheartening reality where societal norms perpetuate an unfair division of responsibilities. Join me as we shine a light on this inequality and delve into the frustrations it has bred.

The Burden of Gendered Roles:
It is disheartening to witness the unrealistic expectations thrust upon women in relationships. Tradition dictates that a man’s role ends once he returns from work, while a woman is expected to take on a myriad of tasks, often without respite. The weight of these gendered roles creates a stark imbalance that can leave women feeling unheard and undervalued.

The Invisible Labor:
Countless women run themselves ragged, tirelessly fulfilling responsibilities that go unnoticed and underappreciated. From caring for the children to cooking meals, maintaining relationships, and managing calendars, it seems the work never ends. The question that gnaws at us is why women feel compelled to perform all day, every day, in order to feel valued and needed.

The Power Dynamics:
Furthermore, these imbalances in responsibilities are often coupled with imbalances in authority within the relationship. The frustration stems from the fact that men often enjoy positions of power and decision-making, even though they contribute considerably less to the domestic sphere. Such power dynamics create a disconnect between men and women, fostering a lack of understanding and empathy.

Breaking Free from Tradition:
It is time to challenge these deeply ingrained societal expectations. Women should not be confined to roles that drain their energy and rob them of their personal fulfillment. True partnership requires a shared load, where both individuals contribute equally and support one another’s growth and well-being. Breaking free from the shackles of tradition paves the way for healthier and more equitable relationships.

Fostering Open Communication:
The key to dismantling these imbalances begins with open and honest communication. It is crucial for women to express their frustration and for men to empathize and actively listen. Constructing an environment where both partners feel heard, respected, and valued is essential to bridge the disconnect caused by unbalanced expectations.

The frustration born out of the unbalanced expectations placed upon women in relationships is not unwarranted. It is time for society to recognize the immense burden women carry and actively strive for change. True equality can only be achieved when the roles, responsibilities, and power dynamics are redefined. So, let us collectively challenge these norms, foster open communication, and create relationships that are truly founded on respect, understanding, and shared responsibility. A better future awaits, one where both men and women can thrive in harmony and without the weight of unattainable expectations.

Inspiration

Breaking Free from the Shackles of Unrealistic Beauty Standards: A Call to Unite

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Prepare yourselves, for a fiery exploration of the infuriating reality that engulfs us. We stand united in our shared frustration, fueling a revolution against the oppressive standards of beauty that confine and degrade us. In this social circus, women are uniquely burdened, relentlessly judged for their appearance while men are granted the freedom to simply be. Brace yourselves, for this angry but empowering journey opens our eyes to the injustice that seeps through every corner of society.

The Women’s Struggle:

Oh, the weight of expectations upon our weary shoulders, how it threatens to crush our spirits! The twisted notion of perfection that society imposes upon us is an insidious tyranny, a never-ending carousel of criticism. We are caught in a relentless cycle where dressing down is met with disapproval, and dressing up is seen as discomfort with our own skin. A constant barrage of messages tell us we are wrong, inadequate, and forever falling short. It is high time we shattered these unjust expectations that hold us captive.

The Double Standards:

A maddening symphony of scrutiny accompanies us everywhere we go. We are made to feel insufficient, be it in beauty, age, or any other arbitrary measure imposed upon us. The infuriating truth, my friends, is that this harrowing pressure cooker of expectations is solely designed for women. Men are given the luxury to step it up, to better themselves, to strive for personal growth. They are spared from the absurd standards of moral virtue that plague our existence. A profound inequality drenched in hypocrisy.

Challenging the Status Quo:

Why must we forever strive for an unattainable ideal? Who dictates our worth through superficial measures? Let our anger be the catalyst for change, for the dismantling of these oppressive standards. Let us rise above the suffocating norms and redefine the very notion of beauty itself. It is time to reclaim our individuality and value, stripped of societal judgments. United, we can topple the walls that confine us and shatter the mirror of false expectations.

Embracing Authenticity:

Our true power lies not in conforming but in embracing our authenticity. We are warriors, resilience coursing through our veins. It is time to unleash our true selves, unapologetically and without compromise. Let us reject the shackles of unrealistic beauty standards, celebrating our diverse shapes, sizes, ages, and colors. In unity, we can create a new narrative, one that uplifts, empowers, and allows every woman to be seen and valued for who she truly is.

Raging hearts, heed this call to arms! We stand united against the profound injustice that plagues our existence, fueled by our righteous anger. Let us transcend societal dictations of beauty and worth, as we disrupt the established order with resolute determination. It is time to free ourselves from the suffocating expectations, forging a future where individuality is praised, where every woman can revel in her uniqueness without fear or judgment.

Remember, the power lies within each of us. Together, we can dismantle the chains that entangle our spirits and rewrite the narrative of female existence. Embrace your anger, channel it into productive defiance, and let us emerge triumphant as we pave the way for a more inclusive, liberating, and compassionate society. For the time to unite against the tyranny of beauty standards is now!

Inspiration

Blissful Harmony: The Joy of a Fulfilling Marriage and Happy Children

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Happiness is a subjective and ever-elusive concept, but for me, the pinnacle of my joy has come from the combination of a wonderful marriage and thriving children. In this narrative essay, I will delve into the profound happiness I have experienced from the harmonious interplay between a flourishing marriage and the joyous presence of my children.

Building a Strong Foundation:

The key to a remarkable marriage lies in the solid foundation upon which it is built. From the very beginning of our relationship, my partner and I recognized the importance of open communication, trust, and unconditional support. We were dedicated to nurturing our love, forging a bond strengthened by shared values and common goals. It is within this foundation that the seeds of our happiness were sown.

Cherishing Moments of Togetherness:

Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, we make a conscious effort to prioritize quality time together. We savor those precious moments, be it a shared meal, a walk in the park, or even a quiet evening at home. These instances of togetherness contribute significantly to the happiness we find in one another, as we create lasting memories and strengthen the emotional connection that lies at the core of our marital bliss.

Nurturing Our Children’s Happiness:

The joy intensifies as we witness the growth and happiness of our children. From their first steps to their early milestones, we have reveled in the privilege of facilitating their development. Our unconditional love, unwavering support, and dedicated presence create an environment that allows our children to flourish. Seeing their radiant smiles and hearing their contagious laughter fills our hearts with immeasurable joy.

Embracing Challenges Together:

No marriage is devoid of challenges, and it is how we navigate them as a team that truly defines our happiness. We recognize that life’s obstacles can strengthen our bond, encourage personal growth, and deepen our appreciation for one another. By tackling challenges together, we have emerged stronger and more resilient. The knowledge that we have each other’s unwavering support and love adds a layer of contentment to our lives.

Celebrating Milestones and Shared Successes:

In our journey as a family, we celebrate not only individual milestones but the collective successes that we achieve together. Whether it be a promotion at work, academic achievements, or personal milestones, the joy we experience is magnified in the knowledge that we have overcome obstacles as a unified unit. Each success becomes a testament to our shared commitment and propels us towards further happiness and fulfillment.

The cumulative result of a harmonious marriage and the joy brought by our children has brought unparalleled happiness into my life. By building a strong foundation, cherishing moments of togetherness, nurturing our children’s happiness, embracing challenges, and celebrating shared successes, we have found an enduring happiness that is both profound and deeply gratifying.

In conclusion, I consider myself immensely fortunate to have experienced the joy that emanates from a fulfilling marriage and the presence of happy children. It is within this nurturing environment that I have found the truest form of happiness, enriching my life and providing a constant source of love and contentment. My journey has taught me that the happiness derived from a wonderful marriage and the joy of happy children is an immeasurable and irreplaceable gift.

Human Interest, Inspiration, Revelations

Title: The Healing Power of Compassion: A Journey as a Cancer Caregiver

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Life’s unexpected turns often lead us down unfamiliar paths, challenging us to discover new strengths and depths of compassion. As a caregiver for a cancer patient, I have embarked on a profoundly transformative journey, one that has taught me the true meaning of empathy, resilience, and the healing power of human connection. I will share my personal narrative, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons I have learned walking alongside a loved one during their battle against cancer.

The Diagnosis: A Moment That Changed Everything:

It started with a visit to the doctor’s office, a routine check-up that descended into a whirlwind of fear and disbelief. I was sitting on her couch when she received the devastating news. The word “cancer” echoed through the room, shattering our world into a million pieces. As a caregiver, my role abruptly transformed from being a pillar of support to becoming a steadfast advocate for my loved one’s health and well-being.

Navigating the Medical Maze:

Cancer became more than just a disease; it became a labyrinth of medical jargon, treatment options, and emotions. My memories unfold as I recall the countless hours spent researching, attending appointments, and consulting with medical professionals. Through it all, I became a beacon of hope for my loved one, providing her with the reassurance and guidance she needed to make informed decisions.

The Daily Battles and Unwavering Support:

In the midst of surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, my true essence of caregiving emerged. There were numerous struggles of witnessing physical pain and emotional turmoil, and the constant battle against despair. Yet, it is also a story of strength and unconditional love, as I remained resolute in my commitment to provide unwavering support, a steady hand to hold, and a shoulder to lean on.

The Power of Connection and Compassion:

I recall the transformative moments of connecting with other cancer patients and their caregivers. Sharing stories of hope, vulnerability, and resilience forged bonds that transcended the boundaries of disease. Together, we celebrated victories, offered solace during setbacks, and found solace in the understanding that we were not alone in our journeys.

Being a caregiver for a cancer patient is a profound and life-altering experience. It is a journey intertwined with moments of overwhelming sadness, unspeakable fears, and relentless determination. Yet, amidst the darkness, I have discovered an unparalleled capacity for compassion, strength, and personal growth.

I am reminded of the words of Helen Keller: “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” As a caregiver, I have come to realize the importance of a support network, both for the patient and for oneself. It is through these connections that we find solace, hope, and the courage to navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

In light of this journey, I am grateful for the lessons learned, the resilience gained, and the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a loved one. Being a caregiver for a cancer patient has shown me the invaluable power of compassion, reaffirming the belief that even amidst the darkest of times, love and empathy can illuminate the path to healing.

Inspiration

Cleaning Chronicles: A Musical and Comical Journey

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

Ah, the good ol’ days of childhood, where cleaning was a bizarre source of joy and laughter.

1. The Musical Interlude:

Picture this: a small, modest house filled with the delightful tunes of Patsy Cline, Tammy Waynett, and the legendary Cher. As we embarked on our Saturday cleaning rituals, these legendary artists became the soundtrack of our choreography. The lyrics blending with the hum of vacuum cleaners and the swish of brooms created a symphony of cleanliness.

2. Choreography, Siblings, and Shenanigans:

In our little 900 square foot kingdom, each sibling had their designated cleaning task. My eldest sister owned the kitchen, my younger sister took on vacuuming and dusting, and I, with all my youthful enthusiasm, was entrusted with the formidable job of tackling the bathrooms. We were a well-oiled cleaning machine, meeting in the middle of the house to exchange stories, share laughs, and most importantly, belt out some unforgettable tunes.

3. Memoirs of Bathroom Adventures:

Cleaning bathrooms is no small feat, especially when you’re armed with rubber gloves and cleaning supplies. From scrubbing toilets with the determination of an Olympic athlete to battling against soap scum with fierce determination, my bathroom-cleaning escapades led to some unforgettable experiences. But through it all, the laughter and singing never faded.

4. Improvised Dance Moves and Questionable Lyrics:

Who needs professional dancers when you have a trio of siblings armed with mops and brooms? Our cleaning sessions turned into impromptu dance rehearsals, complete with spins, twirls, and occasionally, some questionable interpretative moves that could rival any contemporary dance performance. And if the lyrics didn’t quite match the original song, we simply made up our own version, adding hilarious twists to the melodies.

5. Laughter as the Ultimate Cleaning Product:

As we scrubbed, dusted, and danced our way through the house, laughter became the magical ingredient that transformed cleaning from a mundane chore into an adventure. Stifled giggles turned into infectious laughter, allowing us to cherish those moments of camaraderie, even when faced with the most stubborn stains or the treacherous shower grime.

In the grand scheme of things, cleaning may seem like a trivial task, but when infused with music, laughter, and a sprinkle of sibling mischief, it became a cherished part of our childhood memories. These moments taught us the value of finding joy in the simplest of tasks and the power of shared laughter amidst the chaos.

Inspiration

An Unfinished Life – Taken Way Too Soon

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2024 – Rebecca Nietert

When Shari was only six years old, I distinctly remember the first time she attempted to take her own life. Sadly, this was not an isolated incident. I witnessed many moments where she would retreat to the back of a closet, seeking solace from the world or persistently trying to bring an end to her suffering. It breaks my heart to recall these memories because Shari was truly an innocent and delicate little girl with a remarkable sense of humor. If she had ever pursued a career in comedy, she surely would have found immense success.

I believe that witnessing my mother’s frequent fits of rage, where I bore the brunt of her anger, must have profoundly impacted Shari. The full extent of her motivations remained a mystery to us, but as I matured and sought therapy for my own struggles, I gradually realized that Shari’s depression ran deep. She was a young girl who lacked the ability to effectively communicate her fears and inner turmoil. It became apparent that something was gravely wrong, and yet, Shari carried this burden throughout her nineteen years of life, unable to change her desire to put an end to her pain.

Then one evening when Shari was 19 years old…

I received a call that shattered my world, a call filled with rage and despair. It was my sister on the other end, struggling to deliver unthinkable news. My younger sister, Shari, had been taken from us in a cruel twist of fate – a victim of a sudden and tragic car accident. The words pierced through me, but my mind struggled to grasp their meaning. I collapsed to the floor, my body unable to bear the weight of such devastating truth.

Through the blur of tears and confusion, my best friend Linda came to my aid. She lifted me up, guided me into a cab, and together we arrived at the hospital. I stumbled towards her room, my heart pounding in my chest. And there she lay, my sweet Shari, so small and fragile. Her face was marred by bruises, unrecognizable to my bewildered eyes. I wept uncontrollably, my desperate prayers filling the air, begging for a miracle that would never come.

As if to compound the agony, the doctor entered the room, his words forever etched in my soul. He confirmed what I couldn’t bear to accept – she was gone, forever lost to us. The weight of such surreal news crashed upon me, leaving me numb and drained. Tears streamed down my cheeks, the anguish consuming every fiber of my being. And then, as if in a cruel twist of fate, the doctor delivered another blow. My shattered family awaited me in the chapel, ready to discuss the unimaginable – the end of her life.

I leaned over her, planting a tender kiss on her bruised cheek, and whispered the painful truth that hung heavy in the air. After all the struggles, after all the battles she fought within herself, it seemed as though she had finally achieved her wish. The lights of hope dimmed and darkness engulfed us all.

In that devastating moment, my world shattered into a million pieces. Waves of grief and sorrow crashed over me, threatening to drown me in their depths. The pain, oh the pain, felt insurmountable. It was as if a weight had been placed upon my soul, crushing it with an unyielding force. How could I bear this agonizing loss?

Her absence, the absence of Shari, felt like a void that could never be filled. She was so young, just nineteen, yet she had already faced her own battles, her own demons. How many times had I tried to shield her from the pain of our shared upbringing, only to realize that I couldn’t save her from herself? And now, I wouldn’t have the chance anymore. She was gone.

The tears ran dry, leaving me empty, hollow. I stumbled blindly through the darkness, trying to find a sliver of light, a glimpse of hope. But despair enveloped me like a black tunnel, its grip tightening with each passing moment. I collapsed into the arms of the doctor, seeking solace, seeking any semblance of comfort.

Looking back now, I wish I had possessed the knowledge and understanding I have acquired over time. It pains me to think that there may have been ways to support and help Shari if only we had been equipped with the awareness and resources we have today.

The tears may have stopped, but the ache in my soul remained. In this desolate landscape of sorrow, I vowed to find a way to honor Shari’s memory and find solace in the love that still surrounded me.

Inspiration

Blazing Inferno – An Epic Testimony

Reba Nietert

Copyright Rebecca Nietert – 2024

I was 16. My mind raced, thoughts swirling in chaotic disarray. The overwhelming heat pressed against my skin, threatening to consume me. In a desperate attempt to escape, I darted into the fiery inferno, my heart pounding in my chest. But the flames were relentless, their scorching touch leaving my face seared, my hair singed. I gasped for air, my lungs craving the cool freshness that was nowhere to be found.

Fear gripped me, tightening its hold with every passing second. Frantically, I changed direction, fleeing back into the kitchen. The room was shrouded in a dense, impenetrable cloud of black smoke. I dropped to the floor, seeking refuge from the inexplicable, suffocating darkness swirling around me.

Crawling on all fours, my hands outstretched, I groped my way towards the door. With trembling fingers, I reached for the knob, only to find it melted beyond recognition. Panic surged through me as the weight of the situation bore down, crushing my spirit. A whispered plea escaped my lips, “We’re going to die.”

Through the haze, my sister’s voice shattered the despair, urging me to keep trying, to find a way out. The acrid black soot coated my throat, a constant reminder of the imminent danger that surrounded us. Yet, in that harrowing moment, something shifted deep within my soul. Instinct took over, transforming me into a creature driven solely by the primal need for survival.

I continued to crawl, relentless in my pursuit of escape. The darkness stifled my senses, but I pressed on, feeling my way through the oppressive blackness. My desperate journey led me to a small mirrored bathroom, its reflective surfaces offering no solace, no guidance. Trapped, I groped futilely, my hands grasping at emptiness.

Amidst the disorienting despair, the sound of my sister’s voice called out to me with desperate urgency. I clung to her words, using them as a lifeline, navigating my way through the door and into the dimly lit hallway. Step by agonizing step, I persevered, finding my way through the labyrinthine layout of our home.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I stumbled into the living room. Relief washed over me, mingled with a lingering sense of dread. The battle was far from over, but for now, I had escaped the clutches of the inferno.

In that moment, I realized the true nature of fear. It had engulfed me, threatened to consume everything I held dear, but I had refused to surrender. As I stood amidst the remnants of destruction, I vowed to carry that unyielding resilience within me, forever unafraid, ready to face any challenge that may lie ahead.

To learn more about me and my journey… keep reading.

Inspiration

Announcing a Shift Towards a More Fulfilling Path

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2022 – Rebecca Nietert

Have you ever found yourself in tough situations where your autonomy is limited, decisions are made without your input, and respect is lacking? It can be demoralizing, but there are ways to empower yourself and make your voice heard. Let’s explore some approaches that can help you in challenging circumstances.

In a world where the literary landscape seems to be dominated by trivial books, I have come to a realization. My time in this industry has come to an end. My thirst for intellectual stimulation, intricate story arcs, multi-dimensional characters, and unpredictable narratives cannot be quenched by the garbage that is flooding the market. No matter how enticing the cover may be, the content within is nothing but nonsense.

And let’s not forget the hordes of aspiring authors who believe that simply uploading an unedited, plotless, and characterless piece of work onto Amazon qualifies them as true authors. Amazon fails to distinguish between true gatekeeper-worthy creations and the literary trash littering its platform, leaving the American public to pay for poorly written and edited books that leave one livid.

It is time for me to sever ties with this tarnished industry. I refuse to be associated any longer with an environment that values mediocrity over quality, quantity over substance. As an academic, I crave thought-provoking literature that challenges the mind, not mindless drivel that insults my intellect. It is time for me to move on, to seek literary experiences that not only satisfy, but inspire.

Last week marked a significant turning point in my journey. I made the decision to dissolve my website, withdraw my books from circulation, and put an end to my assistance for authors. The time has come for me to redirect my passions towards a realm that exudes credibility, far removed from the dubious landscape that my previous industry has become. It takes immense courage to seek a new path at my stage in life, but I am convinced of my ability to do so.

If you find yourself in pursuit of your own passions, I implore you to take that leap of faith. There is an indescribable sense of liberation that comes from releasing emotional and professional ties to an industry in decline.

Stay tuned as I embark on this auspicious new chapter, where integrity and authenticity are paramount. Together, let us explore uncharted territories and uncover realms of knowledge that resonate deeper with our scholarly pursuits.

Remember, it is never too late to rediscover your true calling. Join me on this exciting journey towards a future teeming with inspiration and genuine fulfillment.

Human Interest, Inspiration, Journal Entry, Opinion, Reflection

Witness to the Brooding Storm Within – But Remember Our Worth

Reba Nietert

Copyright 2022 – Rebecca Nietert

I will never comprehend the actions of someone who chooses to take offense without engaging in constructive discussion. Instead, they resort to screaming, blocking, and shutting out any opposing viewpoints. It reminds me of a child throwing a tantrum. In a healthy relationship, conflicts should be resolved with love and understanding. However, when one party refuses to reciprocate that love and understanding, the relationship becomes selfish, one-sided, and ultimately doomed. Some temper tantrums leave irreparable damage. It’s truly disheartening, but sadly, it is the reality we sometimes face.

Recently, I experienced this kind of behavior firsthand. The person in question simply stated, “I spoke my mind,” believing that was the end of it. It did not matter how their words were delivered, the emotions they stirred, or the hurtful things they said in anger. In their mind, they had the right to express their thoughts without being held accountable for their actions. They expected the recipient of their anger to passively agree with everything they believed, and any form of contradiction was unacceptable. When I attempted to explain that their personalization of issues in my life was misguided, the response was immediate – I was blocked and mocked.

It is with a heavy heart that I recount this story. It serves as a reminder of the challenges we face when trying to navigate human relationships. The inability to engage in meaningful dialogue, to empathize with others, and to understand that communication is a two-way street can have devastating consequences. It is my hope that we can all strive to approach conflicts with love and openness, ready to listen and learn from one another. In doing so, we may find the path towards healing and genuine connection.

It’s disheartening to witness how some individuals, despite their professional façade or seemingly loving demeanor, can harbor a brooding storm within. For those of us blessed with the inability to desert, it can be a heavy burden to bear.

Yet, in these moments, it’s crucial to remind ourselves of our own worth. We must remember that our friendships hold value, even when surrounded by individuals whose true nature remains hidden. It’s important to affirm ourselves and refuse to internalize the hateful words that may come our way. We must hold steadfast to our path, always striving to do what is right, regardless of how others may behave.

This is what defines a person of character, especially in times like these. And if the storm persists, if the toxicity becomes unbearable, it is okay to take action. It is okay to light the match and set the bridge ablaze, severing ties that no longer serve our emotional well-being.

Remember, dear reader, you are not alone in your experiences. The world is filled with souls struggling with similar challenges. But it is in recognizing our own worth, staying true to our values, and being unafraid to let go of those who bring us down, that we can find solace.

So, as you traverse the untamed waters of life, hold onto your character. Embrace the sadness that may come, but let it fuel your determination to remain true to yourself. And know that as you set those bridges aflame, you make space for new connections that will bring you warmth, joy, and a sense of peace.

You deserve it.

Inspiration

Worthy of Love, by Jacob Nightingale

Reba Nietert

“We instinctually measure our self-worth based on our perceived value to the tribe that surrounds us, and unfortunately, I am a rocket scientist on a football team.” 

Find your Tribe, and there you will discover your value. Find your willingness, and there you will decide your worth. 

We were all innocent once. A child; vulnerable and uncertain. We struggled to make sense of the world. Nothing was certain except for our undying love and devotion to those we valued. We gave our trust freely to those we loved, without reservation. We would do anything to please them, and give anything to see them happy. There is no greater devotion than the love of a child and every child wants to believe they are loved equally in return. A child is always seeking feedback and reassurance, because they want to know one thing—if they too, are worthy of love. Our body may have grown and our spirit has matured, but that child still wants to know, “am I worthy to be loved?”

Worthiness is measured, not by how much you are loved, or by how much love you have been given. Worthiness is measured by how much love and devotion you are willing to give.

A child is born willing to give ALL their love and devotion; no one is more worthy of love than a child.

Like all children, we’re all pure potential. Our Will is the very essence of our potential and we are free to create ourselves however we choose. Is there a such thing as worthless potential? 

No one is worthless; we are all a work in progress, and our progress, our worth, is based solely on our willingness to learn, grow, and improve.  

While we can measure our “value” based on our past contributions and accomplishments, it’s solely based on another’s appreciation and value for what we gave. However, our worthiness, is only effectively measured by our willingness to give, and whether we did the best we could with what we had.

Are you worthy of being a friend, parent, leader, partner, spouse, doctor, student, artist, author…?

Love is the devotion to creating value, contributing, supporting, actualizing dreams, and nurturing growth, improvement, creation, and connection. If your worthiness is based on your willingness to give love and devotion, you need only to ask, “How much love and devotion am I willing to give?” This is your worthiness.    

Are you worthy of Leading? 

How much are you willing to give those that choose to follow you; to nurture, inspire, guide and support their growth and improvement?

Are you worthy of being a parent?

How much are you willing to give your child love and devotion; to support their development, to offer comfort and safety, and to nurture their growth?

Are you worthy of being a friend or romantic partner?

How much are you willing to give love and devotion to the relationship, to nurture each other’s growth and aspirations? 

Are you worthy of creating success?

How much are you willing to give to reach your objectives?

Are you worthy of love and devotion from another?

How much love and devotion are you willing to give?

While we cannot state another’s worth, we can decide if it’s “worth it” to give. When you give to someone, you are investing a part of yourself to them, and for someone to be worth it, they must be willing to accept and willing to invest. If someone is unwilling to give, how can they be worthy of what we are giving? If they are unwilling to grow and improve or to contribute and nurture growth, how can they be worthy of our support and contribution? If someone is unwilling to give love and devotion, is it worth it to give them ours? We cannot allow ourselves to give to those that are unwilling, and if we are unwilling, we are not worthy of what others are willing to give. 

It’s amazing how this simple shift in perception can change everything; it can break down the chains of self-doubt, worry, and insecurity. You don’t need to ask whether someone else finds you worthy. You can measure your own worthiness and the worthiness of those you keep in your life. If you are willing to give love, you’re worthy to be loved, and you are worth every ounce of love you have in your heart. That small child can find peace and comfort, knowing that no matter how much they were cast aside, forgotten, or unfairly challenged, they always have been and always will be “worthy of love.”