RTFR Magazine

Why is it that we hold more respect for a luxury handbag than we do for ourselves?

Respect, we seem to demand it from others. Needing to see it reflected back, as though it would somehow make us feel more validated. As if that acknowledgement or verbal confirmation is finally the needed approval from others. It somehow instills or quantifies one’s presence and purpose in life.

What many do not understand is that respect from others is a gift. It is never granted completely and unconditionally. Yes, one should be polite and extend oneself in difficult situations if one’s able. But really, life is a solo ride on the much-needed self-discovery tour. With much-needed destinations with self-validation, all leading towards the final stop with self-respect.

Friends, lovers, husbands, wives, mothers and fathers, nor brothers or sisters cannot instill what you’re are needing; that journey is a solo realization. Those who love and hopefully support you along the way can help and reinforce what you need to remember, but they cannot fix it. Whatever you’re needing, respect, love, validation, or even attention, simply place the word “self” in front of each of those words. Then you will discover your mission in life.

So many think their lives are all about the stereotypical path, which is constantly peddled through social media, home media, and even books. These false narratives can be very destructive. Leaving many to believe that there are only certain paths to joy. But unless you’re living one of those desired influenced visions, or have accomplished any or all of those social desires. Only then can you justify that these life goals are not an end result that will finally bring everlasting joy, love, and peace into your life. Moments, yes, and if you’re really lucky, long periods of joy. But never complete and everlasting.

It seems that most of us suffer from the daily congestion of something missing in life. What’s missing is that you’re placing that luxury bag on the proverbial pedestal and not yourself. Remember, others need to earn your love and respect, your life should be invitation only!

That HAPPY EVER AFTER that Disney is a proud sponsor of, is not felt by obtaining another person or element…it is found through your discovery of your own mission, no matter what that path is, wife, mother, career, or a gardener! Do it with a full heart! Nothing is missing, just unrecognized, you’re the luxury, not that handbag that just sits on a shelf.

xx gail