#26: How Others Describe Me

Monday, February 23, 2015

How Others Describe Me

I have just re-connected with a family we met eight years ago in Guam.

I told her I was now separated.

And her quick response to that news was “You are BRAVE and COURAGEOUS all on your own”.  

What??????

Is that really how other people see me?  Is that really how others choose to describe me???

Is that how I come across???

My gosh, I know this of myself.  But for others to see me this way completely rocks my world, and makes me feel quite confused.

I have always thought I, pretty much, have nothing to offer anyone else.  Nothing.  That I have no opinions, no insight, no major capabilities of my own.

I know that I am capable.  I know that.  I know I am made of steel.

But, it is a completely different reaction when others see me the same way I see myself.

It really does confuse me.

How did she form this opinion of me?

What have I done to be worthy of such complimentary words?

I still do not get it.

But it blows me away.

A voice from the past who knew our entire family for a few short months while we were all hanging out in Guam.

And this is what she says to me.

It is the stored box of photographs all over again.

Simple words and acts of complete kindness that cut to my core, taking my breath away and causing tears to well up.

Again, I am utterly stunned that I have earned a special place in other people’s hearts.

Totally mind-boggled.

Talk about a mixed-up bag of complete self-confidence and utter lack of it!!!!

Happy Monday.