For most of my young life, I had this vision that my one true love would come and save me from that feeling of not enoughness, feeling somehow incomplete…
That I’d meet the one and feel connected. fulfilled, and finally be the woman I was meant to be.
It wasn’t until one late July night in Paris in the summer of ’99 that I realized there was no one to wait for…
The warm weather was perfect for an adventure to the top floor of a building that overlooks the heart of Paris, and le Tour Eiffel.
From this place, I could see the fullness of the tower under the light of a gorgeous glowing moon.
And I was in awe.
Mesmerized by the wonder and wholeness of the tower, I felt inspired and reflective.
I’d been traveling on my own through Europe for nearly six weeks at this point, meeting people, contemplating life, reeling in the richness of history and human experience.
Little did I know that one of the most important moments of my journey would have nothing to do with anyone else.
As I absorbed the light of the moon and the brilliance of the sparkling lights adorning the Eiffel Tower, I too felt illuminated.
I felt the fulfillment of my desire.
I realized in one brilliant moment that the love I wished for was not anywhere out there…
That night under the Parisian moon, I began to fall in love with me, with the perfectly imperfect fullness of who I am.
I realized that my one true love is the love I feel for myself.
And from this love all other love could flourish.
Since that night over 15 years ago, I continue practicing loving me… all the time, no matter what, and just as I am.
This love changes everything. {And it really, truly is a practice!}
The love I cultivate within allows me to be more compassionate and understanding with myself.
When I’m really loving me, I feel inspired to be more present, kind, tender, and patient with my family, with friends, and with everyone I meet.
Learning to love myself is making me a better me.
I am more gentle and peaceful with more love to give.
Turns out that Robert Morely is right: “To fall in love with yourself is the first secret to happiness.”
When I truly love me, I feel complete, free and happy.
As you reflect on your own tenderness and compassion for yourself, get curious about how you could grow more loving of you…and do tell. We all have so much to learn from one another.
Big Hugs + Love Always,
Denise
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