I have learned...

Some people are born with confidence (the good kind where you to know your good qualities and talents and have the ability to share them with others for good) and some people are not. I am one of the people who was not. I had a loving mother who strengthened herself through many trials that she faced. She loved me, taught me, and did all that she knew how to help build me up as a faithful, independent, confident woman. She did a good job and as I grew up I was able to learn and do many things that I would have never tried if not for her cheering me on. When my mom passed away I lost my confidence. I had lost the one person on earth that truly believed I could achieve anything. After she was gone I found myself facing many trials. I rode on a roller coaster of having the faith and confidence to face and over come them, to the lows of not knowing who I was or which way to turn. Over the years I have learned from facing adversity. I have learned that my mom is always there to build me up and cheer me on if I am willing to take the time to listen. I have learned that to truly feel confident in the choices I'm making, I have to actually have my own and not rely on someone else's confidence in me. It's nice to have people to cheer you on through life, but to rely on another human for that 100% of the time can sometimes leave you heart broken and disappointed, because after all we are all just human. So, another thing I have learned in my quest for self confidence and comfort with who I am is; to remember the moments when others cheer you on and let go of the ones that tear you down. Let go of them and use them as stepping stones not stumbling blocks. I still have a lot to learn about finding the confident me, to be comfortable with who I am, but I also know that I have come a long way. I know that as a mother I work to build my children up. I must teach them who they are and where they come from. I must love them unconditionally, and help them to learn to do the same. I must help them to understand that when you feel like there is no one on your side there is always One standing with you, holding you up, and willing to help you find a way to truth and happiness. I have learned that I need to be a sister and a friend that sheers others on. To love them for their good and encourage them along the way. For we all have struggles and trials, and we all enjoy the company of those who are there to build us up and not tear us down. I have learned I have a wonderful husband, loved ones, and friends that are there for me that cheer me on and love me for me. I have learned that I have much to offer and need to share those gifts. I know that no matter what, I am a daughter of our Heavenly Father. I know that no matter how people in this life may try to make me feel (media, naysayers, bullies, etc) that He is always there to hold me up, cheer me on, and help me find the me that matters most.