How can I recognize when I am not being self-compassionate? What does it look like? What does it feel like? Many of us are open to showing compassion for others, but find it difficult to be compassionate with ourselves. Self-compassion is enfolding ourselves in a blanket of our own love, warmth, and understanding at all times. It is not self-pity, self-centeredness or excessive self-indulgence, but a genuine act of loving ourselves wholeheartedly.

Beyond feelings of failure and inadequacy, being self-compassionate relieves us from needless suffering and self-imposed anxiety. It is an empowering self-management tool that enables us to be tolerant, tender and gentle with ourselves. Loving and caring for ourselves strengthens our capacity to serve others.

It is our personal responsibility and paramount to human existence. We can become self-compassionate by knowing our worth, being self-forgiving and affirming self-love. Dr. Jean Marie highlights each.

As we wholeheartedly connect with ourselves, we have better relationships with others. As we become self-compassionate, we are more empathic, understanding, and accepting of others. We can discern the balance of giving and receiving by setting healthy boundaries. As Henry Drummond quotes, "Hold things in proper proportion... You will give yourself many things, give yourself first to love". Be gentle with yourself and treat yourself with loving-kindness. Extend the olive branch to yourself. It is your responsibility and the best gift you can give yourself.

Our Love In Action Practice is to face yourself wholeheartedly. Journal on qualities you admire about yourself and those that you would like to improve. You can also get feedback from a loyal friend, teacher or family member.

Be an astute observer of yourself. Examine your thoughts, feelings and actions. Look in your own eyes with compassion. Face and embrace your whole self. This deepens the connection with your inner self. Reflect your true image of divine love.

Feel free to share your insights and observations: Email jean72farish@yahoo.com

Dr. Jean Marie closes with her excerpts on Self-Wholeness and Self-Embrace.

Access Dr. Jean Marie's seminal books on Love:

Living In the Spirit of Love: Our Natural State of Being, Love Mastery Devotion Journal: Weekly 21-Day Journal Prompts and Affirmations and My Love Journal for children available in English and Spanish