I remember feeling very alone and disconnected.
I remember wondering if I was adopted ‘cause I just didn’t “fit” my family.
I remember worrying if I was weird because I was told repeatedly “Nobody thinks like that.”
I remember thinking I was crazy and everyone was just being nice to me.
That’s where I was as a child, adolescent and young woman.
And I am so grateful I connected, found my place, honoured my uniqueness and valued my contribution. All of those feelings lead me to where I am today, and allowed me to create what I have created and contribute how I can to my community.
Each and everyone of us has a place. There is a song I love written by American Folksinger Bill Staines “All God’s Creature’s Have a Place in the Choir”. Here is a wonderful 2 minute break for you – it’s worth a look and a listen two of my old folkie pals (now on the “other side”, but still bringing joy to the world with their music) Tommy Makem and Liam Clancey:
- I forgive myself for believing there is something wrong with me because I’m “not like everybody else”.
- I forgive myself for believing I need to compare myself to others, and judge myself.
- I give myself permission to be uniquely who I am.
- I give myself permission to value my contributions.
- I choose to show up as me and bring my unique gifts to my community.
- I am free to be appreciated for the unique individual I am within my community.
- I know what it feels like to be valued and appreciated by others. It happened when I …
- I am so grateful to _______________ (insert a specific person’s name) for valuing and appreciating my _________________ (specific contribution of yours)
- I am a valued, contributing member of my community.
Whatever your religious beliefs, the sentiment ALL God’s creatures have a place in the choir holds true. The music we make in community needs EVERYONE’S voice.
Yours included.
Please step up and step in.
Your community needs your contribution.
Only you can add your unique piece.
Namaste,
Suze
