“Positive self-esteem means liking and respecting yourself enough so that you can focus on the needs of others, rather than on constantly seeking someone else’s approval and affirmation. Positive self-esteem contributes to satisfying social relationships which, in study after study, have been shown to be crucial components of resiliency.” Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I am pursuing my victim and disability assistance and advocacy certification. I am currently learning about self-care, one of the most critical skills one must conquer to be an effective counselor.

Problem: Within me lives a dichotomy – the traumatized little girl who penned my cathartic memoir whose trashed self-esteem and PTSD symptoms linger on, and a strong, determined woman whose ability to counsel others effortlessly (but often avoids implementing her own suggestions) actually has helped others.

The words I share with others often surprise me. It’s as if I am writing or speaking to myself, which is probably the case for most of us.

Anyhow, until I am able to handle caring for myself properly, i.e. building my self-esteem, being confident in myself, recognizing triggers and controlling my reactions, I won’t be an effective proponent.

So I press on and will not let my age (64) or my bedridden condition hinder my goal of helping victims of abuse, the elderly, and the disabled. I do get out from time to time and am able to take a couple of hours, if need be, to visit those I will be assisting in the near future.

“Not to give up under any circumstances should be the motto of our life: we shall try again and again, and we are bound to succeed. There will be obstacles, but we have to defy them. So do not give up, do not give up! Continue, continue! The goal is ahead of you. If you do not give up, you are bound to reach your destined goal.” ― Sri Chinmoy