It always strikes me as true that most people are hardest on themselves. We are our loudest critics, our worst enemies; our very own nemesis is staring back at us in the mirror. And this is especially true in moments where we need to be a friend to ourselves. How many nights have we spent thinking, “What is wrong with me?” when someone doesn’t return the affection we tried to give? How many times have we harmed our emotional and psychological well-being by holding desperately onto something long after it has been over? How many times have we felt less than, simply because someone couldn’t see us the way those who love us do? The answer, I think, is far too often.
But what if you heard someone you loved crying at night because the person they wanted didn’t want them back? What if they told you they feel like no one is going to ever love them? What if they told you they just can’t seem to get anything right with this whole love thing? You’d probably tell them they’re beautiful, wouldn’t you? You’d probably tell them that sometimes disappointments are a blessing in disguise. You’d probably tell them that if they keep on keeping on and being the best they can be, and having a heart that is full of life and open to love, things somehow will work out.

All of this is what you should be telling yourself too. Because you are worthy of all the kindness, love, patience, and respect you give your loved ones; in any and all moments, but especially in the moments when love has made you feel less than.