On Saturday, March 9th, we had psychologist Deborah Giombarresi as a guest. In the morning she gave the sermon based on the text of Luke 12 which says: "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (verses 6+7).
In the afternoon she held a seminar on the theme "Self-esteem. The Immune System of Consciousness". The meeting was well attended, the church was full, and six non-Adventist people were also present.
We are our own greatest enemies. Self-esteem is feeling adequate for life, and knowing how to overcome challenges and difficulties. Self-esteem depends on the confidence we have in ourselves. If we think we are worthless, others can afford to treat us badly. It happens that even in feelings we are trapped in dysfunctional relationships. We must think that we have the right to be respected, to desire to be serene, and to have peace. Self-esteem has a great reflection in every area of life.
There are six pillars of self-esteem:
Awareness. Being confident and aware of one's worth is not self-centeredness. It is the ability to observe oneself. We are aware that we are good at certain aspects of life and this does not mean that we are the best. We see in ourselves our strengths and weaknesses with balance; We observe and recognize our strengths. I am aware of what I am worth and live consistently. Acceptance. It is the ability to accept oneself without criticism or conditions. Sense of responsibility. It's the ability to take responsibility for what I think and do. I can't please everyone. The more I act, the more capable, relaxed, confident, and comfortable I become. The important thing is to start by setting small goals. Self-affirmation. It's the ability to do and be who I am: I've accepted myself and therefore I feel safe. Set yourself a goal. Giving myself a goal to pursue in small steps that allow me to progress considering the unpleasant events that can happen. Personal integrity. Having the ability to live, according to one's own values, principles, ideas, what is functional for me.
Often low self-esteem is conditioned by the people who are close to us, by traumas related to bullying, abuse, and domestic violence. Often those who have suffered emotional trauma, due to a separation or divorce, have low self-esteem because they blame themselves for not being able to maintain the relationship. People who have low self-esteem manifest sadness, and tend to isolate themselves. They are afraid of rejection, abandonment, inadequacy, disappointment, and not being reciprocated.
Often the image of perfection overpowers our lives. Let's let our guard down, give up perfection, admit we are wrong (we are fallible, lacking, weak people), and turn away the voice that tells us we are not adequate. Let us not limit our lives, let us give ourselves the chance to make mistakes. Let us learn to be compassionate with ourselves and forgive ourselves. We learn to recognize and accept social disapproval.
Improving one's self-esteem is possible by eliminating negative thoughts, focusing on one's strengths, strengthening social relationships, and surrounding oneself with positive people. In conclusion, we learn to accept ourselves and to have a loving eye on ourselves. We are unique, not better. We accept our insecurities, learn to be empathetic, and share. Throughout this journey, we can count on the Lord's help and guidance.
As reported by Gisella Di Dio