One of my female students came to class like she normally does. Most of the time, she’s in a pretty good mood and all smiles—but today she seemed a little off. After taking attendance, I checked in with her and asked if she was okay? “I’m just over today. I’m just ready for this whole day to be over and done with”, she replied. (Sitting there a little confused) I asked, “What’s wrong with today?” She said, “Everyone is someone’s special valentine and I am not! Everyone is getting candy and a bear and I am not!” I told her, “But everyone is not getting candy and a bear and you are someone special!” She said, “I am not?” And I said, “But you are…to you, your parents, your friends, those who genuinely love and care about you including ME!”
You see, teens need to know what love is. That it is not based solely on the feelings that others have for them or what others do for them, but how they feel and treat themselves. It’s the value and appreciation they have for themselves—not in a selfish way but in a way that they can love themselves, validate themselves, and see the value of themselves FIRST!
So how can teens practice self love and be good to themselves:
1.Practice gratitude: Daily gratitude is the key to happiness and loving you. They can start a gratitude journal, social media channel or blog—and each day express the things they’re grateful for.
2.Embrace your differences: Accepting what makes you different is key to happiness and loving you. They can be unique (YOUnique) unapologetically and love what makes them who they truly ARE!
3.Learn what God says about you is the key to happiness and loving you. They can jot down scriptures about God’s love and put these little reminders in their cellphone, lunchbox, or anywhere to easily grab when they need a boost of encouragement.
Hope this helps many! Ready. Set. Grow.
#Areyoufallinginlovewithyou #Youaresomeonespecial
