Practicing Self-love Without Selfishness: A Valentine’s Reflection
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s no surprise that everywhere I turn, people are eagerly seeking ways to shower themselves or their loved ones with love. I must admit, I am caught up in the excitement too! In this era of self-love, self-care, and mental health awareness, it is refreshing to see that the pressure to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a specific way has decreased. Now, people can celebrate it however they choose, regardless of their relationship status.
I love that this shift takes the pressure off wanting to be in a relationship just to participate in the celebration. Instead, it advocates for self-love and self-care – a win-win situation!
However, as the self-love mantra becomes more ingrained in our daily lives, I have found myself struggling to draw the line between self-love and selfishness. While self-love is about embracing and loving oneself, it is easy to blur the lines as flawed humans.
So, how can we practice self-love without selfishness, especially during this love-filled season? To start, I recommend practicing self-awareness. Before engaging in self-love practices, take a moment to weigh your thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself honest questions like “What do I intend to get out of this?” or “Is this a way to honor my Creator?” Reflect on your answers and look for cues to determine whether your self-love practices align with the true meaning of love.
Taking care of your physical needs is also essential. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Prioritizing self-care is crucial when practicing self-love without selfishness. Set aside time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as meditation, reading, or spending time in nature.
Ultimately, God’s word provides the perfect blueprint for practicing self-love without selfishness. As 1 John 3:16 NKJV reminds us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse shows us that true self-love is about loving others and putting their needs before our own.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16 NKJV
By following these principles, we can celebrate Valentine’s Day and practice self-love without crossing the line into selfishness. Happy Valentine’s Day!
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