Some people are their own worst critics. They only see their negative sides and dwell on their mistakes. They tend to forget their blessings, talents, gifts, and many beautiful things God has endowed them with. This mental setback becomes a clog in the wheel of their progress.
Dear child and young adult, always endeavour to see the potential in you, knowing that you were created in the image and likeness of God. Don’t focus on your failings, your mistakes, or the things you don’t like about yourself. You are not weak. You are not a failure. Don’t let the celebrity-obsessed culture or societal coercion make you feel that you don’t measure up.
You are more than enough! You have all it takes to make your world a happy place. If only you’ll believe in yourself, trust God, focus on your goals, and be confident in your abilities.
Your looks, background, and past does not define you. Don’t let them limit you. You are so much more than how others see you or define you. You don’t need to do the extra to prove that you exist.
And to the individual or society that sees others as weak links. To those who only see the fault in others, judge them and look down on them. To those who think others are inferior and focus on interpreting their downsides. To those who easily condemn others and confine them to ‘Magdalene Laundries’. To those who are fond of comparison and discrimination. Stop! Segregation, favouritism, and judgments are not necessary. Nobody is more superior. Everyone has their unique value regardless of their personality or background.
Why pick on some people because they are different? Why condemn someone because he doesn’t measure up to your standard? Why ridicule him because of his background? Why dismiss his opinion because of your impression of him?
We are called to see ourselves as equals just as we are equal before God. He chose us to be His followers despite our sins, weakness, and unworthiness.
To the young, It’s okay to be challenged to stretch your abilities but it’s not okay to think that you are not enough and to dwell on your perceived failings. You are your best cheerleader. Just as God speaks only to the good in us, we must speak only to the good in ourselves and in those around us.
✍️ Amara Ann Unachukwu
