There was a time when pain was my constant companion.
I was hurt so much that it shattered me.
People saw me as fragile, broken.
But through the cracks, light began to seep in.
I started to love myself, piece by piece.
I found beauty in the little things.
A sunrise, a kind word, a quiet moment.
I learned to be grateful.
Grateful for the air in my lungs, the strength in my legs.
For the simple act of waking up each day.
Healing became my mission.
I took time to mend, to nurture my soul.
I discovered that loving myself was the greatest gift.
I noticed the world in a new light.
The colors were brighter, the sounds sweeter.
I began to appreciate the journey.
Every setback was a lesson.
Every tear shed was a step closer to self-love.
Now, I stand tall, not because I am unscathed.
But because I chose to rise above my pain.
To find joy in the present, hope in the future.
I am grateful for the scars.
They are a testament to my strength, my resilience.
I learned that self-love is not selfish.
It is essential.
Because you cannot pour from an empty cup.
You must first fill yourself with love, with gratitude.
So, I embraced my past, my hurt.
I forgave myself and others.
And in doing so, I found peace.
I found love.