Chapter 1: The Journey of Self-Worth

A date once remarked that I didn't truly grasp my own value.

She was absolutely correct.

Feeling unworthy is one of the most difficult emotions to endure. And there are days when that's precisely how I feel.

It doesn't matter that I was the Valedictorian of my university, or that I received the Teacher of the Year award. Those accolades fade in significance when I often feel unworthy of love. Yet, there are days when I do feel deserving of affection.

How does one reconcile these conflicting feelings?

If I had the solution, I might as well be the Dalai Lama.

Some of my followers appreciate my openness and vulnerability.

I wish I could share that sentiment.

Unfortunately, I don't.

Perhaps it's easier to appreciate admirable qualities in others than to acknowledge and cherish those same traits within ourselves.

This leads us to the crux of today’s discussion.

During a date, a woman once pointed out my lack of awareness regarding my own worth.

At the time, I was oblivious to her insight.

It’s only now, three years after my divorce, that I truly understand her words.

She was indeed correct.

I tend to settle for less.

I frequently find myself questioning my self-worth.

I tragically seek validation from others, especially from the opposite sex.

And when that validation eludes me?

I once again doubt my own value.

This cycle perpetuates itself.

In those moments, I feel like Ken (think Ryan Gosling) in Barbie's universe.

However, through my writing, I continue to learn and grow.

I'm on a journey to love myself more fully.

I have no choice in this matter, as I may very well spend the rest of my life with myself.

Is that a daunting thought?

On certain days, it feels overwhelmingly frightening.

Yet, on other occasions, like tonight, I find a sense of calm about it.

To circle back, my date was likely correct: I might be worth far more than I realize.

However, acknowledging a truth is vastly different from genuinely feeling it.

Chapter 2: Learning to Love Oneself

In the first video, "Declan J Donovan - Perfectly Imperfect," the artist explores the beauty in our flaws and the importance of accepting ourselves as we are. This resonates with the journey of self-love and recognizing our worth, despite imperfections.

The second video, "Mitchell Tenpenny - Truth About You," delves into the complexities of self-identity and the struggle for validation. It emphasizes the need to embrace our true selves, reinforcing the idea that self-worth should come from within.