A couple of weeks ago, I was asked to give a presentation on self-esteem at a local women’s shelter. As I have been training to become a certified sexual assault advocate, I was delighted and agreed to speak to the group of ladies and give a one-hour presentation. I titled it “Phenomenal, Beautiful You.” I gave that presentation today.
Now due to numerous reasons and past experiences, I myself struggle with low self-esteem. I still find specific tasks difficult, uncomfortable, or challenging. So, everything I shared with the ladies today was really for myself. Sometimes, we just need to speak words of affirmation to ourselves. I let those precious ladies know I am just like them, only now, sitting on the opposite side of the table. However, not without being well acquainted with the struggles that they face. I shared my story, and my insecurities, and spoke about what the definition of insanity is: Doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. Here is one of the quotes that I printed out on cardstock for each lady to take:
When you change your thinking, you change your belief;
When you change your beliefs, you change you expectations;
When you change your expectations, you change your attitude;
When you change your attitude, you change your behavior;
When you change your behavior, you change your performance;
When you change your performance, you change your life.
This is the kicker to today’s event – today would have been my sister’s birthday, had she not passed away after being struck down by a hit-and-run driver, some 40+ years ago! I was a lonely, neglected child. But when my sister was born, I took care of her from early on. Many times, it was just the two of us while our parents were gone. But I didn’t mind. It was better to do things together than to do them alone. I promised to love and care for her forever. When tragedy struck, she was only two. How do you think this nine-year-old big sister felt at the time? Do you think she struggled with self-esteem, insecurities, and self-doubt for the majority of her life? Yeah, you can say that all right. And I will continue to work on it.
I share my experiences because it is possible to make a difference in this world. Just like my pastor says: If you have a pulse, you have a purpose! Today’s message was well received, and the hour flew by quickly. Afterward, no one wanted to stop chatting and visiting with me. They felt inspired. In the end, they knew I was one of them, but also an overcomer.
When I look back on my life, I see pain, mistakes, and heartache. When I look in the mirror, I see strength, learned lessons and pride in myself.
© M.A. Pérez 2015, All Rights Reserved
From Heart to Heritage
Reflections From the Heart 