As we venture out into the world as the pandemic restrictions lift it’s important for us to realise that we all have a gift to bring and who we are within ourselves can be a gift to others. I say “can be” because how we show up in the world is really up to us isn’t it? I understand that many people seem to experience an extraordinary amount of difficulties, and if I’m honest I genuinely count myself in that group, but you would have to truly have walked in my shoes to understand that. Of course when I travelled to Africa & Cambodia and spent time with those in abject poverty my difficulties suddenly seemed somewhat pathetic in comparison but everything is relative isn’t it?

I reflect back to around 30yrs ago when I had been admitted into a mental health facility because I had attempted suicide for the 2nd time. I had an eating disorder and a drug addiction due to sexual and emotional abuse and to be honest I found the world a cold and confusing place. As a child I remember being excited about meeting other children and then discovered that other children really could be quite cruel and that confused me. I mean, I really wasn’t expecting it! Experiences we have as children really do begin to shape who we are and how we see the world.

Whatever your experience as a child and even as an adult, I want YOU to know that you not only have a gift, you ARE a gift to the world. You are a gift to your community and to your family and your friends. Maybe you don’t feel like you’re much of a gift because your journey so far feels like it has beaten the life out of you; but I want you to know that YOU’RE STILL IN THERE!!! Underneath all that confusion and pain YOU are still there. That inner child you that trusted and loved and needed to be loved is still there and needs you to let them know that “it’s ok, you’re safe now”. Maybe you didn’t feel protected as a child (and I’m really not making light of that), and you’ve grown up feeling vulnerable and fearful. Reassure your inner child that you’re safe now and you are now able to protect them and then let the gift that is YOU be seen! Refuse to keep yourself hidden for even a moment longer.

I know, this can be daunting, and you may feel concerned about what other people will think if you do this, but can I let you into a secret? Come a little closer as I need to whisper this …

It doesn’t matter what THEY think

It really doesn’t!! As long as we’re not out there intentionally hurting people then peoples opinions of you really don’t matter. Be free my friends to be who you are and know that you not only have gifts and talents that will bless you and others but YOU also ARE a gift. So why not decide today to be a gift! Maybe you think you’re spreading doom & gloom in the world (and you may have good reason to), then consider spreading love & joy as what goes around comes around. Difficult and challenging times will always come but how we respond to them will always make the difference, right?

I think you are an incredible human being and you are loved and your life has value, so regardless to what has happened so far, and even if you feel the evidence shows otherwise, please KNOW that YOU are loved and your life matters!! YOU are a gift!

Love & blessings until next week friends,

Sam xx