What is the greatest gift someone could give you?
I was a painfully shy, quiet child. I didn’t make friends easily. I was uncomfortable being the center of attention. I didn’t talk much, except around family, because it took too long for me to think of what to say. The message I got from teachers and classmates is that the right way to be is outgoing and extroverted. Introversion was a defect.
Thankfully, I felt accepted at home. Mom taught me to accept people for who they are. She modeled acceptance by loving each of us, all eight of us, just as we are. She found something positive in other people and would compliment them and make them feel special.
Acceptance means not trying to change people into who you want them to be and not thinking less of them for not meeting your expectations.
I strive to be a more accepting person, not just of others but also of myself. I fight the tendency to judge others and the temptation to compare myself to others.
Discovering yourself and learning to accept who you are is a life-long journey because a person can change over time (values, beliefs, physically and mentally).
Luke Feldbrugge
Being accepted just as I am with all my flaws and shortcomings is the greatest gift. Thank you, Jesus.
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt
Fighting and fears within without
Oh, Lamb of God, I come, I come
Innermost Being 